Phase-Conjugate Antenna System for Omnidirectional EW Coverage

The patent combines multiple phased array functions into a single aperture by using multiple feed elements that illuminate the same reflector surface. This single aperture performs the function of multiple distributed apertures, providing omnidirectional coverage without requiring multiple separate phased arrays, thereby reducing system complexity while maintaining coverage completeness.

The single aperture with multiple feeds serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides omnidirectional azimuth coverage, generates multiple simultaneous beams for different threat directions, and eliminates the need for mechanical scanning or beam switching. This multi-functional design replaces what would otherwise require multiple specialized subsystems.

The patent achieves continuous omnidirectional coverage by having multiple feed elements operate simultaneously, each generating a beam in a different azimuth direction. All beams are present at the same time, eliminating the temporal discontinuities inherent in beam switching systems. The useful action of threat countermeasures is continuous across all azimuths without interruption.

The system dynamically forms multiple beams simultaneously through electronic control of the feed elements, allowing adaptive coverage of multiple threat directions at once. This dynamic beam forming capability provides flexibility comparable to beam switching while maintaining continuous coverage, as the system can electronically adjust beam directions and intensities without mechanical movement or temporal sequencing.