Interleaved Phasing Element Arrays for 360-Degree Phase Shift
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional passive reflect arrays face limitations in achieving a continuously variable phase shift over a 360-degree range, which restricts their ability to accurately direct and form reflected microwave or millimeter wave beams, and they often suffer from high reflection loss due to resonant dipole lengths.
Innovation Solution
The use of a reflect array with interleaved first and second arrays of phasing elements, where at least one dimension of each array is varied, allows for a continuous range of phase shifts spanning nearly 360 degrees while maintaining low reflection loss, achieved by optimizing the dimensions of dipole and patch elements to avoid resonant lengths.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If a single array of conductive elements is used to achieve phase shift, then the device complexity is reduced, but the phase-shift range is limited and cannot achieve continuous variable phase shift over 360 degrees
Solution Approach 1:
The reflect array is segmented into multiple interleaved arrays (first array and second array of conductive elements) with different geometries. Each array contributes differently to the phase shift, enabling the combined system to achieve a continuous 360-degree phase-shift range that cannot be achieved by a single array type.
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the reflect array use different types of conductive elements (first array vs. second array) with distinct geometries and phase shift characteristics. This local differentiation allows each element type to be optimized for specific phase shift ranges, collectively achieving full 360-degree coverage.
2Ease of manufacture
If dipole elements are used in the reflect array, then the manufacturing is simplified, but the reflection loss increases due to resonant dipole lengths
Solution Approach 1:
The dimensions and geometries of the conductive elements are carefully adjusted and optimized. By changing the physical parameters (length, width, shape) of the dipole and patch elements, the resonant frequencies are shifted away from the operating frequency, thereby reducing reflection loss while maintaining ease of manufacture.
Solution Approach 2:
The reflect array combines different types of conductive elements (dipoles and patches) with different geometrical characteristics. This composite structure allows the system to benefit from the manufacturing simplicity of dipole elements while compensating for their resonant losses through the complementary characteristics of patch elements.
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
This configuration enables improved phase-shift range and reduced reflection loss, allowing for accurate beam steering and formation without the limitations of single-array designs, enhancing the reflect array's performance by providing a full range of phase shifts with minimal loss.
Implementation Method 1
Passive reflect arrays are arrays of conductive elements adapted to reflect microwave or millimeter wave radiation within a predefined wavelength band. The radiation may be reflected with a phase shift that is dependent on the size, shape, or other characteristic of the conductive elements.
Data Source
AI summary
There is disclosed reflect array including a dielectric substrate having a first surface and a second surface. The first surface may support a first array of phasing elements and a second array of phasing element, where the elements of the first array have a first shape and the elements of the second array may have a second shape different from the first shape. The second surface may support a conductive layer.