Dual Polarization Patch Radiator Feed Circuit
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional patch radiators are limited to single linear polarization and require complex circuitry for dual or circular polarization, making them bulky and inefficient for use in phased array antennas where space is limited.
Innovation Solution
A patch radiator design using a single feed line with a tuning stub to establish resonance, eliminating the need for external power splitter circuits and allowing operation with dual linear or circular polarization, while maintaining a compact footprint.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If a single feed line with tuning stub is used, then device complexity is reduced and footprint is minimized, but polarization capability is limited to single linear polarization
Solution Approach 1:
The feed circuit is segmented into multiple independent feed lines (first feed line and second feed line), each capable of exciting different polarization modes. This segmentation allows each feed line to be independently controlled, enabling dual linear or circular polarization without requiring complex integrated circuits.
Solution Approach 2:
Each feed line is designed with universal capability to support multiple polarization modes. The first feed line can excite both first linear polarization and circular polarization, while the second feed line can excite both second linear polarization and circular polarization. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate dedicated circuits for different polarization modes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple feed lines and power splitter circuits are added to support dual or circular polarization, then polarization capability is improved, but device complexity and footprint increase
Solution Approach 1:
The complex power splitter circuits are extracted and eliminated from the design. Instead of using power splitters to divide signals for different polarizations, the patent uses multiple independent feed lines that can be directly connected to transmission lines, simplifying the overall circuit architecture while maintaining dual or circular polarization capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The solution transitions from a single-dimensional feed approach to a multi-dimensional feed structure by introducing feed lines on both sides of the patch antenna. This dimensional expansion allows independent excitation of different polarization modes without requiring complex planar circuit arrangements.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional dual polarization design with four feed lines is used, then polarization capability is achieved, but the footprint becomes too large for phased array unit cells
Solution Approach 1:
The feed lines are merged with the transmission line structure, eliminating the need for separate feed circuit boards or additional mounting space. The feed lines are integrated directly into the substrate, and the patch antenna is positioned adjacent to the transmission lines, combining multiple functions into a compact unified structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The polarization capability is made dynamic and reconfigurable through the independent control of multiple feed lines. By adjusting the excitation of different feed lines and their corresponding transmission lines, the system can dynamically switch between different polarization modes (dual linear or circular) without physical reconfiguration, optimizing space utilization in phased arrays.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The solution enables efficient dual or circular polarization operation without additional circuitry, increasing radiation efficiency and reducing the footprint of patch radiators, allowing them to fit within a unit cell of a phased array antenna and operate at higher frequencies.
Implementation Method 1
a tuning stub disposed a selected distance from the open circuit stub region of the feed line with the tuning stub selected to provide an impedance characteristic which establishes resonance with the feed line at a desired frequency
Data Source
AI summary
A patch radiator suitable for operation with circular or dual linear polarizations is described. The patch radiator includes a patch antenna element and a pair of excitation circuits. The excitation circuits include a feed line and a turning circuit configured such that a single feed line enables independent operation of each polarization. This allows for the operation of the patch and therefore array as either linear, slant, elliptical, or circular polarization.