Gradient-Index Lens Structure for Wide-Angle Microwave Scanning
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional antenna systems suffer from high directivity, bulky feeding networks, strong scanning losses, complex structure, and sub-optimal feed ports with single linear polarization, leading to disturbed scanning angles and low gain radiation patterns.
Innovation Solution
A gradient-index lens comprising a primary lens with a radial dielectric constant gradient and secondary lenses with axial dielectric constant gradients, providing zero-focal length and smooth dielectric transitions, allowing for wide-angle scanning and high gain without scan loss, and supporting dual polarizations without additional space.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Device complexity
If conventional lenses with circular symmetry are used, then the structure is simple, but the feeding network becomes bulky and lossy, and the radiation pattern suffers from low gain and disturbed scanning angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs asymmetric lens structures with non-circular symmetry to optimize the radiation pattern and reduce scanning losses. The lens elements are configured with specific asymmetric geometries that improve impedance matching and eliminate the need for bulky feeding networks, thereby reducing energy loss while maintaining structural feasibility
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements local quality variations through gradient-index lens elements where the dielectric constant varies spatially. This local variation in material properties enables precise control of electromagnetic wave propagation, improving radiation pattern quality and reducing feeding network losses without requiring complex overall structures
2Device complexity
If conventional lenses with single linear polarization feed ports are used, then the structure is simple, but the scanning performance deteriorates with azimuth-dependent losses and disturbed scanning angles
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dual-polarization feed ports that can handle both vertical and horizontal polarizations simultaneously. This multi-functional design enables the antenna system to maintain consistent scanning performance across different azimuth angles by selecting the appropriate polarization mode, eliminating azimuth-dependent losses and improving reliability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable feed port configurations that can adapt to different scanning angles and polarization requirements. The feed system can switch between different polarization modes and impedance configurations to maintain optimal performance throughout the scanning range, preventing disturbed scanning angles
3Shape
If conventional feeding networks are used to achieve high directivity, then the beam directionality is improved, but the system becomes bulky and suffers from strong scanning losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces conventional mechanical feeding networks with integrated gradient-index lens elements that directly shape the electromagnetic beams. This substitution eliminates bulky feeding structures while maintaining high directivity through the lens's inherent beam-shaping capabilities, and reduces scanning losses through optimized impedance matching
Solution Approach 2:
The patent merges the feeding network functions directly into the lens structure itself. The gradient-index lens elements perform both beam shaping and impedance matching functions that were previously separated in conventional systems, eliminating the need for distinct feeding networks and reducing overall system volume
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 gradient-index lens achieves wide bandwidth, low induced losses, and effective impedance matching, enabling wide-angle scanning with high gain and reduced size, suitable for MIMO systems like 5G and 6G applications.
Implementation Method 1
The gradient-index lens includes a primary lens and one or more secondary lenses. The primary lens comprises a cylinder of dielectric material. In the cylinder, the dielectric constant decreases with an increase of a radial distance from the axis of the cylinder.
Implementation Method 2
In the cylinder, the dielectric constant decreases with an increase of a radial distance from the axis of the cylinder. In the slab, the dielectric constant decreases with an increase of an axial distance from a central region of the slab.
Data Source
AI summary
A gradient-index lens for shaping one or more microwave beams, comprising a primary lens and one or more secondary lenses. The primary lens comprises a cylinder of dielectric material, with a cutout on a lateral surface of the cylinder. Each of the one or more secondary lenses comprises a slab of dielectric material that extends radially from the primary lens within the cutout. The primary lens and each of the secondary lenses have the same dielectric constant at a point of connection of the central region of the slab of the secondary lens with the primary lens. The gradient-index lens provides for wide angle scanning while maintaining a high gain radiation pattern without suffering from a scan loss effect.