Shared-Aperture Circularly Polarized Phased Array With Crossband Isolation
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional shared-aperture phased array antennas face challenges such as high antenna element density, difficulty in planar distribution, and low crossband port isolation due to the absence of an integrated filter structure, hindering miniaturization and functionality integration.
Innovation Solution
A multi-band, shared-aperture, circularly polarized phased array antenna is designed with multiple linear array groups and crossband decoupling structures, incorporating dielectric radomes and metal blocks to enhance bandwidth and isolation, and features integrated filters for each frequency unit.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If multiple antennas are integrated into one aperture to reduce system volume and weight, then miniaturization and weight reduction are achieved, but the antenna element density increases making circuit arrangement difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the high-density antenna array into multiple low-density sub-arrays, each operating at different frequency bands. By segmenting the overall array into K-band and Ka-band sub-arrays with separate feeding networks and decoupling structures, the circuit arrangement complexity is reduced while maintaining the integrated aperture configuration.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar circuit distribution to three-dimensional spatial arrangement by using vertical stacking of sub-arrays and incorporating decoupling structures in the z-direction. This dimensional change allows circuits to be arranged in space rather than constrained to a plane, solving the layout difficulty caused by high density.
2Volume of moving object
If multiple antennas are integrated into one aperture to reduce system volume and weight, then miniaturization is achieved, but crossband port isolation decreases due to absence of integrated filter structure
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges filtering functions directly into the antenna structure by integrating band-pass filters into the feeding networks of each sub-array. This combination of filtering and radiating functions within the same physical structure improves crossband isolation without requiring separate filter components, thus maintaining compact size.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces decoupling structures as intermediary elements between adjacent sub-arrays operating at different frequency bands. These metallic or dielectric decoupling structures act as mediators that block unwanted electromagnetic coupling between bands while allowing each sub-array to function independently, thereby improving crossband port isolation.
3Adaptability or versatility
If antenna element density is increased to achieve multi-band functionality in shared aperture, then multi-band operation is enabled, but manufacturing and circuit distribution become difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the multi-band antenna system into distinct frequency-band sub-arrays (K-band and Ka-band), each with its own feeding network and circuit distribution. This segmentation allows each sub-array to be manufactured and tested independently before integration, significantly easing the manufacturing process compared to a fully integrated high-density array.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different circuit distribution strategies to different frequency bands. Each sub-array is optimized with local circuit arrangements suitable for its specific frequency range, allowing tailored manufacturing approaches for each band rather than forcing a uniform high-density layout across all bands.
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 design achieves improved bandwidth, crossband port isolation, and reduced size, making the antenna more practical and feasible for multi-functional applications.
Implementation Method 1
Two sides of the rectangular metal blocks are connected to or bonded with the adjacent circularly polarized endfire linear arrays to decouple horizontal polarization components
Implementation Method 2
The function of the metal via array is to electrically connect the top metal layer and the bottom metal layer
Implementation Method 3
The antenna elements radiate (e.g., broadcast or reflect a signal) in a third (e.g., a z) direction
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-band, shared-aperture, circularly polarized phased array antenna relating to the field of antenna technology is disclosed. Specifically, two multi-band, shared-aperture, circularly polarized phased array antenna designs are disclosed. By integrating multiple circularly polarized endfire antennas with different operation bands into one aperture, a shared-aperture antenna array is achieved. The bandwidth and crossband port isolation of this antenna are enhanced, and the antenna also has the properties of miniaturization, feasibility, and ease of connection with circuits.