Functionalized Honeycomb Substrate for Scalable Electromagnetic Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sandwich composite structures used in microwave systems and other applications lack reconfigurability and scalability, particularly for large-scale structures like naval applications, due to limitations with passive substrates and active thin layers.
Innovation Solution
A functionalized honeycomb substrate with conductive elements integrated into its walls, allowing for electromagnetic control through active charges and microwave circuits, enabling the substrate to function as both a structural panel and an antenna system, suitable for large-scale use.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If passive substrates with active thin layers are used for electromagnetic control, then local-scale electromagnetic functionality is achieved, but scalability to large structures is limited
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the substrate structure with electromagnetic control functionality by integrating conductive elements directly into the honeycomb substrate walls. This combines the mechanical support function with the electromagnetic control function into a single unified structure, eliminating the need for separate active thin layers and enabling scalable deployment across large structures.
Solution Approach 2:
The honeycomb substrate serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides mechanical structural support, acts as an electromagnetic wave interface, and enables reconfigurable electromagnetic control through integrated conductive elements. This multi-functionality allows the same structure to be scaled from small to large applications without fundamental design changes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If active thin layers are deposited on substrates for electromagnetic control, then electromagnetic functionality is achieved, but manufacturing complexity and constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
The conductive elements are integrated directly into the substrate manufacturing process rather than being deposited as separate thin layers. This merging of functions simplifies manufacturing by eliminating the need for precise thin-layer deposition processes and associated quality control constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The substrate utilizes composite construction with dielectric wall materials and integrated conductive elements, creating a unified composite structure that combines the advantages of both materials while simplifying the overall manufacturing process compared to layered thin-film approaches.
3Strength
If conventional sandwich composite structures are used, then mechanical strength is achieved, but reconfigurable electromagnetic properties are lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges mechanical structural support with reconfigurable electromagnetic control by integrating conductive elements directly into the honeycomb substrate. This allows the same structure to provide both mechanical strength and dynamic electromagnetic functionality without requiring separate systems.
Solution Approach 2:
The honeycomb substrate with integrated conductive elements serves as both the mechanical load-bearing structure and the electromagnetic control interface, enabling the structure to adapt its electromagnetic properties while maintaining mechanical integrity.
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 substrate provides reconfigurable electromagnetic properties, enhancing scalability and functionality for large-scale applications without compromising mechanical performance or increasing production costs, making it suitable for naval, land, or air carrier structural panels.
Implementation Method 1
said conductive element is adapted to dissipate heat when a current intensity is applied between its first end and its second end
Implementation Method 2
said conductive elements are configured to apply an electric command to said active charges when a potential difference is applied between said conductive elements
Implementation Method 3
the walls being formed of a dielectric material
Data Source
AI summary
Cellular substrate (20) of honeycomb type extending between a first end face and a second end face, the cellular substrate (20) comprising a plurality of tubular cells having a polygonal cross section, each cell comprising a plurality of walls (11) delimiting said cell, the walls (11) extending from the first end face to the second end face, the walls (11) being formed from a dielectric material, characterized in that said plurality of cells comprises at least one conductive cell (9c), said conductive cell (9c) comprising at least one electrically or thermally conductive element (22), which element is positioned in at least one of the walls (11) of said conductive cell (9c) or on a surface of at least one of the walls (11) of said conductive cell (9c).