Segmented Metal Matrix Composite Antenna for Compact Satellite Terminals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing portable satellite communications antenna systems face challenges in achieving true parabolic reflector properties and compact stowability, especially at higher frequency bands like X, K, and Ku, while maintaining mobility and ruggedness.
Innovation Solution
A compact, rigid parabolic antenna structure made of metal matrix composite, disassembling into segments with a hub and quick-release mechanism, featuring a shallow feed horn assembly and orthomode transducer for easy assembly, disassembly, and polarization change without tools, using nickel nanostrand material for segments.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a large physical antenna size is used to achieve higher directed gain at X, K, and Ku bands, then the antenna gain and beamwidth performance is improved, but the portability and transportability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The parabolic reflector is divided into multiple flat panels that can be assembled together to form the complete reflective surface. Each panel is a separate component that can be easily transported and stored, yet when assembled they create the large aperture needed for high directed gain at X, K, and Ku bands
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna panels are designed to nest within each other when not in use, allowing the complete antenna system to be collapsed into a compact form factor that fits within a small carrying case, dramatically improving portability while maintaining the ability to form a large reflective surface when deployed
2Power
If a large physical antenna size is used to achieve higher directed gain, then the beamwidth and satellite discrimination capability is improved, but the antenna volume and stowability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector is segmented into multiple flat panels that can be arranged to form the parabolic shape. When stowed, these panels collapse flat and nest within each other, reducing the antenna volume to a fraction of its deployed size while maintaining the capability to form a large aperture for high directed gain
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna transitions from a three-dimensional parabolic structure during deployment to a two-dimensional flat-packed configuration during storage. This dimensional transformation allows the antenna to achieve high directed gain when needed while occupying minimal space during transport and storage
3Measurement precision
If a true parabolic reflecting surface is used to achieve narrow beamwidth and high gain, then the satellite discrimination capability is improved, but the manufacturing complexity and portability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
Instead of manufacturing a single complex curved parabolic surface, the reflector is divided into multiple flat panels with simple geometries. Each panel is easy to manufacture and transport, yet when assembled together they form the precise parabolic shape needed for narrow beamwidth and high satellite discrimination capability
Solution Approach 2:
The patent uses a flat-panel mosaic approach to approximate the curved parabolic surface. By carefully designing the panel orientations and positions, the system achieves the necessary optical precision for narrow beamwidth without requiring complex curved surface manufacturing
4Reliability
If a fixed antenna reflector with extended periphery is used to overcome rain fade, then the signal reliability is improved, but the portability and compactness deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The reflector perimeter is extended using additional flat panel sections that can be assembled when needed for rain fade mitigation. These extension panels are part of the modular segmented system, so they can be easily attached and then collapsed back into the nested configuration for transport, maintaining portability while providing enhanced signal reliability when required
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 solution provides a lightweight, compact, and highly portable antenna system that maintains true parabolic radiation patterns across frequencies, reduces stowed and deployed volume, and supports full-duplex communications with minimal intersatellite interference.
Implementation Method 1
mobile satellite transceivers in the X, K and Ku bands require directional antenna systems generally comprising parabolically shaped reflecting surfaces
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna for a compact satellite terminal. Antenna is a rigid parabolic structure of metal matrix composite capable of disassembly into segments affording a high degree of portability such as for man-packable satellite terminals and the like. A shallow feed horn assembly is joined to an orthomode transducer by a common hub, the hub also serving as the attachment point for a plurality of antenna segments, where a quick release means joins the segments to the hub. The feed horn, hub, orthomode transducer and antenna segments are designed for extremely compact stowability in a variety of applications.