Dual UWB Conformal Antenna Array for 90-Degree Scanning
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing electronically scanning antennas face challenges in providing ultra-wideband operation, conformal mounting on complex surfaces, and scanning to large angles within space-constrained areas, while existing solutions fail to meet size, weight, and angular coverage requirements.
Innovation Solution
A dual ultra-wideband electronically scanning antenna linear array is designed with a multi-layered structure, featuring capacitively loaded dipole elements and a dielectric superstrate, allowing for scanning up to 90 degrees from array broadside without grating lobes, and can be made conformal to vehicle surfaces using circuit board-based sections.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a multi-dimensional array of antenna elements is used to achieve wideband operation and large angle scanning, then the scanning capability and bandwidth are improved, but the space required for mounting increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna array is segmented into multiple dielectric layers with antenna elements distributed across different planes. The first dielectric layer contains a first set of antenna elements, while the second dielectric layer contains a second set of antenna elements, allowing the array to achieve wideband operation and large angle scanning capabilities without requiring a large single-plane mounting area.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a two-dimensional array arrangement to a three-dimensional configuration by stacking antenna elements across multiple dielectric layers. This dimensional change allows the antenna to maintain compact footprint while achieving the required scanning capability and bandwidth performance.
2Adaptability or versatility
If antenna elements are placed on external surfaces for conformal mounting, then the adaptability to complex surfaces is improved, but the weight and structural complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent uses thin dielectric layers to support the antenna elements, enabling conformal mounting on complex external surfaces. The dielectric layers are sufficiently thin to maintain flexibility and adaptability to surface contours while providing the necessary electrical isolation and mechanical support, thus avoiding excessive weight increase.
3Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna array is designed for ultra-wideband operation, then the bandwidth is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs composite dielectric structures with multiple layers having different dielectric properties to achieve ultra-wideband operation. The first dielectric layer and second dielectric layer are configured with specific dielectric constants and thicknesses that collectively provide the required bandwidth performance while managing the structural complexity through systematic material selection.
Data Source
AI summary
A dual ultra-wideband electronically scanning antenna linear array and a method for producing same is disclosed. In one embodiment, the antenna is comprised of circuit board-based multi-layered sections with integrated feeds. A first dielectric layer or substrate has a thin metal coating on the bottom surface to form a signal ground and metal coating on the top surface where capacitively loaded radiating dipoles are etched. Each of the dipole elements are connected to an associated conductive antenna feed disposed on a bottom surface of another dielectric layer disposed below the first dielectric layer.