Dual Polarized Super-Element Phased Array Radiator
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array radar systems face limitations due to high cost and complexity, particularly in scan loss and production costs associated with phased array antenna systems, which are exacerbated by the need for numerous radiators and transmit/receive modules.
Innovation Solution
The development of a super-element array radiator that incorporates a ridged waveguide with slot couplers and a dielectric assembly, featuring resonant conductive strips and foam layers, which reduces module count and production costs while enhancing scan angle response, achieving low scan losses and efficient polarization control.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional phased array antenna systems use numerous individual radiators and transmit/receive modules, then radiation coverage and beamforming capability are improved, but production cost and system complexity increase significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple individual radiators into a single integrated super-element radiator structure. The super-element integrates multiple radiating elements, dielectric layers, and feed networks into one unified component, reducing the total number of discrete radiators and T/R modules while maintaining the required radiation coverage and beamforming capabilities
Solution Approach 2:
The super-element radiator is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides radiation, beamforming, and impedance matching capabilities within a single structure. The integrated design allows the super-element to replace multiple separate components, reducing system complexity while maintaining functional performance
2Ease of operation
If conventional phased array systems use numerous transmit/receive modules for each radiator, then signal control and beam steering capability are improved, but production cost increases significantly
Solution Approach 1:
The patent integrates the feed network and T/R module functions directly into the super-element radiator structure. The series-fed network is embedded within the super-element, eliminating the need for separate T/R modules for each individual radiator, thereby reducing production cost while maintaining beam steering capability through phase control of the integrated structure
3Area of stationary object
If phased array antennas scan to large spatial angles (60 degrees or more), then coverage area is improved, but scan loss increases due to accumulated losses
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs parameter optimization in the super-element design, including specific dielectric constant values, layer thicknesses, and geometric dimensions, to minimize scan-dependent losses. The series-fed network is designed with optimized impedance values and coupling coefficients that maintain low VSWR and reduce energy loss during large-angle scanning operations
4Ease of operation
If super-element radiators are designed with complex dielectric assemblies and resonant structures, then scan angle response is improved, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent specifies optimized parameter ranges for dielectric constants, layer thicknesses, and geometric dimensions that balance performance and manufacturability. The design uses practical parameter values that achieve good scan angle response while remaining within standard manufacturing tolerances for radar components
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
This solution significantly reduces production costs and scan losses, enabling phased array radar systems to operate effectively at large scan angles with minimal electrical loss and low cross-polarization, thereby expanding the scan volume and improving performance.
Implementation Method 1
a ridged waveguide having a longitudinal axis aligned with a longitudinal axis of the super-element radiator assembly
Implementation Method 2
a dielectric assembly comprising a first resonant conductive strip and a second resonant conductive strip
Implementation Method 3
a first dielectric foam layer adjacent the waveguide, a first dielectric layer adjacent the first dielectric foam layer, a second dielectric foam layer adjacent the first dielectric layer, and a second dielectric layer adjacent the second dielectric foam layer
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a dual polarization super-element radiator assembly. In one embodiment, an assembly comprises a first waveguide, a series of slot couplers formed in the first waveguide, first and second conductive strips, a second waveguide adjacent to the first waveguide, a series of notches formed in a conductive material extending along or parallel to the longitudinal axis of the second waveguide, the notches having respective throats, a series of slots located proximate the notch throats, and a third conductive strip disposed over and aligned with the notches, wherein the slot couplers and the notches provide a dual polarization super-element radiator.