Super-element Phased Array Radiator Design for Scan Loss Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Phased array radar systems face high costs and complexity due to scan loss and the number of radiators and modules required, particularly at large spatial angles, which limits their design and operation.
Innovation Solution
A super-element array radiator design incorporating a ridged waveguide with slot couplers and dielectric assemblies, featuring resonant conductive strips and foam layers, provides reduced module count, lower production costs, and enhanced scan angle response by using a series-fed network and mode-filtering capabilities for balanced frequency and scan-dependent response.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If conventional phased array antenna systems are used, then radar coverage and spatial angle capability are achieved, but scan loss increases and production cost increases due to high quantity of radiators and modules
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple individual radiators are merged into a single super-element radiator that functions as one integrated radiating unit. This consolidation reduces the total number of radiators and associated modules required in the phased array system, directly addressing the contradiction between scan loss performance and device complexity.
Solution Approach 2:
The super-element radiator is designed to perform multiple functions simultaneously: it provides the primary radiating function while also incorporating mode-filtering capabilities and impedance transformation features. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate components, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining energy efficiency.
2Ease of manufacture
If conventional phased array antenna systems are used, then radar coverage is achieved, but production cost increases due to high quantity of radiators and modules
Solution Approach 1:
The super-element radiator combines multiple radiating elements into a single integrated structure, directly reducing the quantity of components that need to be manufactured, assembled, and tested. This consolidation simplifies the manufacturing process and reduces production costs associated with handling numerous individual radiators and modules.
Solution Approach 2:
The super-element radiator is designed as a modular super-unit that can be manufactured as a complete functional block and then integrated into the larger phased array system. This segmentation approach allows for simplified manufacturing of the complex super-element itself, while the reduced number of super-units required further lowers overall production complexity and cost.
3Reliability
If conventional phased array antenna systems are used, then basic radar operation is achieved, but scan loss increases at large spatial angles
Solution Approach 1:
The super-element radiator incorporates variable impedance characteristics along its length, with the impedance transforming from approximately 50 ohms at the feed point to higher values toward the radiating aperture. This parameter change optimizes the radiation efficiency and scan angle response, reducing scan loss at large spatial angles while maintaining reliable radar operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The dielectric assembly and resonant conductive strips within the super-element act as intermediary structures that control and optimize the electromagnetic field distribution. These intermediary elements enable the super-element to maintain low scan loss across wide scan angles by properly guiding and shaping the electromagnetic energy from the feed point to the radiating aperture.
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 achieves significant reductions in scan loss and module count, resulting in a tenfold decrease in production costs and maintaining high performance across a wide scan angle range, with total electrical loss of 1.8 dB or less for scan angles up to 65 degrees and low cross-polarization levels.
Implementation Method 1
the dielectric assembly comprising a first resonant conductive strip and a second resonant conductive strip
Implementation Method 2
a ridged waveguide having a longitudinal axis aligned with a longitudinal axis of the super-element radiator assembly, a series of slot couplers formed in the waveguide
Data Source
AI summary
Methods and apparatus for a super-element assembly including a dielectric subassembly having first and second conductive patch conductors extending a longitudinal axis of the super-element assembly, a ridged waveguide having a series of slots formed along its length. The super-element assembly provides a significant advance in the art in module reduction, production cost reduction, and enhanced scan angle response.