Stacked Patch Antenna Array for Compact LEO Beamforming
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing antennas for satellites, particularly those used in low earth orbit (LEO) satellites, face challenges due to physical constraints such as limited space and weight limitations, while requiring improved communication efficiency, low power consumption, and operation over larger frequency bandwidths.
Innovation Solution
The development of a stacked patch antenna configuration with surface corrugations and a central post, formed as a unitary body through 3D printing, which allows for efficient RF performance and beamforming capabilities within the constrained space of LEO satellites.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional antenna designs are used, then communication efficiency and bandwidth operation are improved, but satellite mass and volume increase beyond acceptable limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a stacked patch antenna configuration where multiple antenna elements are nested vertically along a central axis. The first and second patch antennas are positioned at different heights (z-direction) and share a common base structure, effectively nesting antenna functions within a compact volume. This vertical nesting allows multiple communication channels and beamforming capabilities while maintaining a small footprint suitable for LEO satellites with strict mass and volume constraints.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from planar antenna arrangements to a three-dimensional stacked configuration. By utilizing the vertical dimension (z-axis) with patch antennas separated by a dielectric substrate, the design achieves enhanced radiation patterns and frequency multiplexing without increasing the horizontal footprint. This dimensional transition enables improved communication efficiency and bandwidth operation while keeping the satellite payload mass within acceptable limits.
2Weight of stationary object
If antenna size is reduced to meet satellite constraints, then mass and volume are reduced, but RF performance and beamforming capability deteriorate
Solution Approach 1:
The stacked patch antenna design nests multiple radiating elements vertically, with each patch contributing to the overall RF performance. The first patch antenna element and second patch antenna element are positioned at different heights and coupled to the common base through probe feeds, creating a compact structure that maintains adequate electrical lengths for effective radiation while minimizing mass.
Solution Approach 2:
By exploiting the vertical dimension with a separation distance (e.g., 3mm) between patches along the z-axis, the antenna achieves improved radiation patterns and frequency selectivity without requiring larger planar dimensions. This three-dimensional arrangement enables effective beamforming and grating lobe suppression while keeping individual patch sizes small, thus reducing overall antenna mass while preserving RF performance.
3Reliability
If multiple antenna elements are added for beamforming, then communication efficiency and beam capability improve, but device complexity and manufacturing difficulty increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple antenna elements into a unified stacked structure sharing a common base and central axis. The first and second patch antennas are symmetrically arranged around the central axis and coupled through a integrated base structure with probe feeds, reducing the number of separate components and simplifying assembly compared to traditional multi-element arrays.
Solution Approach 2:
The antenna structure is segmented into distinct functional zones: a common base structure providing mechanical support and electrical coupling, probe feed elements for signal injection, and vertically stacked radiating patches for radiation and beamforming. This segmentation allows modular manufacturing and assembly while maintaining overall structural simplicity and reducing manufacturing complexity.
Data Source
AI summary
Embodiments relate to antennas. In particular, embodiments relate to antennas suitable for deployment as part of a satellite, such as a low earth orbit (LEO) satellite. Some embodiments relate to antenna arrays for LEO satellites.