Stackable Multiband Antenna Assembly for Satellite Communication
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Current RF configurations with multiple antennas on a single platform face issues of increased cost, weight, and complexity, and require separate antenna installations and connections for different frequency bands, which are often addressed inadequately by Ultra-wideband (UWB) antennas that are large and require diplexors.
Innovation Solution
A stackable antenna assembly with multiple feed boards and radiators, each configured for different frequency bands, where each feed board is connected to radiators and an RF feed, allowing for multiband operation without the need for separate antenna installations or large UWB antennas, thereby reducing size and complexity.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate antennas are installed on a single platform to support multiple frequency bands, then multiband operation is achieved, but cost, weight, drag and configuration complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple frequency band antennas into a single integrated antenna structure. The antenna assembly includes multiple radiating elements (first, second, and third radiating elements) that can operate across different frequency bands simultaneously, eliminating the need for separate physical antennas for each band and reducing configuration complexity
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna assembly is designed to perform multiple functions by supporting multiple frequency bands within a single structure. The radiating elements are configured to operate across L-band, C-band, and Ku-band frequencies, making the antenna universal for various satellite communication applications without requiring separate specialized antennas
2Device complexity
If Ultra-wideband (UWB) antennas are used to reduce the number of antennas, then some configuration problems are obviated, but the antenna size becomes large and diplexors are required
Solution Approach 1:
The antenna assembly divides the broadband frequency range into multiple segments handled by different radiating elements. The first radiating element covers L-band frequencies, the second handles C-band, and the third covers Ku-band, allowing each element to be optimized for its specific frequency range while maintaining a compact overall structure without requiring large UWB antennas
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from a planar antenna layout to a three-dimensional stacked configuration where radiating elements are arranged in multiple layers along the vertical dimension. This allows multiple frequency bands to be accommodated in a compact volume by utilizing spatial separation in the vertical dimension rather than requiring a large horizontal footprint
3Adaptability or versatility
If separate antenna installations are used for different frequency bands, then each band can be optimized independently, but weight and drag increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple frequency band antennas into a single integrated assembly with shared support structures, feeding networks, and mounting hardware. The first, second, and third radiating elements are combined in one structure with common ground planes and support mechanisms, significantly reducing the total weight compared to separate antenna installations while maintaining independent optimization capabilities for each frequency band
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 enables efficient multiband operation with reduced size, weight, and complexity, improving cost-effectiveness and performance by allowing multiple frequency bands to be supported within a single, compact antenna system.
Implementation Method 1
the first plurality of radiators, in response to receiving said feeding, is configured for radiating electromagnetic energy in a radiation pattern
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention is directed to an antenna assembly. The antenna assembly may include multiple sets of radiators (ex.—antenna elements) with each set of radiators being fed by its own RF feed network. The multiple sets of radiators may be arranged in a stackable configuration for providing a low profile antenna assembly which concurrently supports multiple frequency bands (exs.—L band, C band, Ku band).