Planar Antenna With Nested Elements For Compact Satellite Deployment
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Solution Overview
Problem
Satellite communications face challenges in compacting antenna designs for small satellites due to size constraints, particularly in incorporating RF amplifiers and achieving desired radiation patterns, with existing nonplanar antennas being inflexible, expensive, and lacking dual polarization capabilities.
Innovation Solution
A planar antenna device comprising a ground plane, two planar antenna elements, and coaxial feeds, with dielectric material and conductive pins, allowing for adjustable radiation patterns and polarization capabilities, enabling efficient use of space and flexible deployment.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Shape
If a quadrifilar helix antenna is used to provide isoflux radiation patterns, then radiation pattern shaping is improved, but device complexity and manufacturing cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna is divided into four separate filars (elements) that can be independently configured and adjusted. Each filar consists of discrete segments that can be positioned to achieve desired radiation patterns without requiring a complex monolithic structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional three-dimensional helical structures to a planar configuration where elements are arranged in a two-dimensional plane. This dimensional simplification reduces manufacturing complexity while maintaining radiation pattern control through planar geometry and spacing.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the antenna height to diameter ratio is varied to achieve different radiation patterns, then adaptability is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna incorporates adjustable and reconfigurable elements that can be dynamically positioned or tuned to achieve different radiation patterns. The planar elements can be electrically or mechanically adjusted to adapt to various operational requirements without changing the fundamental structure.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves adaptability by varying electrical parameters such as element lengths, spacing distances, and feed configurations rather than requiring physical restructuring. These parameter adjustments allow different radiation patterns to be achieved through simple configuration changes.
3Volume of moving object
If a nonplanar antenna design is used to achieve compact deployment, then volume is reduced, but reliability decreases due to flight risk
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs a planar antenna design that can be folded or rolled into a compact form factor for launch, then deployed into a flat configuration in space. This approach maintains structural simplicity and reliability during deployment while achieving volume reduction for satellite constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The planar antenna elements are designed to be nested or folded together during launch, similar to a nested doll structure. This allows the antenna to occupy minimal volume during transport while maintaining the integrity of individual elements, and can be easily deployed by unfolding or extending the nested components.
4Shape
If multiple resonant straight edges are used to shape radiation patterns, then radiation pattern control is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of requiring precise continuous edges, the patent segments the radiation-shaping function into discrete planar elements with standardized edges. This segmentation allows for easier manufacturing with relaxed tolerance requirements, as each element can be produced independently using standard fabrication processes.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent achieves radiation pattern control through variations in element dimensions, spacing, and electrical properties rather than relying solely on precise geometric edge definitions. This approach provides flexibility in achieving desired patterns while accommodating broader manufacturing tolerances.
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna device may include a ground plane, a first planar antenna element spaced above the ground plane and having an opening, and a second planar antenna element spaced above the first planar antenna element on a side of the first planar antenna element opposite the ground plane. The second planar antenna element may have a size smaller than the first planar antenna element. The antenna device may include a coaxial feed with an outer conductor, and an inner conductor surrounded by the outer conductor and extending outwardly from an end of the outer conductor. The outer conductor may be coupled to the ground plane and the first planar antenna element. The inner conductor may extend through the opening in the first planar antenna element and may be coupled to the second planar antenna element.