VICTS Antenna Array with Rotating Stubs for Beam Switching
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional antenna systems require multiple antennas or complex electronically-scanned arrays to achieve dual switchable beam patterns, leading to increased size, weight, cost, and power consumption, while failing to efficiently support both high-gain and low-gain modes and polarization variations.
Innovation Solution
A variant of the Variable Inclination Continuous Transverse Stub (VICTS) array is developed, utilizing a single integrated structure with distinct continuous transverse stub radiators and a relative rotation mechanism to switch between different beam and sidelobe properties, leveraging existing actuators without additional complexity or components.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If two distinct antennas are used to provide dual switchable beam patterns, then both high-gain and low-gain modes can be supported, but the system becomes bulkier, more expensive, and less capable in terms of power-handling
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines two distinct antenna systems into a single integrated VICTS antenna structure. The single antenna incorporates multiple radiating elements with different geometries that can be selectively activated to produce either narrow high-gain beams or broad low-gain beams, eliminating the need for separate antenna subsystems and reducing overall system bulk while maintaining dual-mode functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The single VICTS antenna is designed to perform multiple functions by incorporating different types of radiating elements within the same structure. By selectively activating specific elements, the antenna can switch between high-gain tracking mode and low-gain acquisition mode, providing universal functionality that previously required separate specialized antennas
2Adaptability or versatility
If a switchable planar array antenna is used to partition a single planar array into two separate antenna apertures, then dual beam patterns can be achieved, but the system suffers from the same drawbacks as two distinct antennas including increased size and reduced power-handling capability
Solution Approach 1:
Rather than partitioning the array into separate apertures, the patent merges multiple radiating element types within a single continuous VICTS structure. The elements are integrated into one coherent antenna system with unified feeding and support structures, avoiding the complexity of managing separate array partitions while achieving the same beam-switching capability
3Adaptability or versatility
If an electronically-scanned antenna is used to switch between narrow and wide beam patterns, then dual beam modes can be achieved, but the added complexity, size, weight, power, and costs are significant compared to a VICTS antenna
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces complex electronic scanning mechanisms with a simpler mechanical rotation approach. The VICTS antenna elements are mechanically rotated to different angular positions to switch between beam patterns, eliminating the need for complex electronic phase shifters, amplitude controllers, and associated processing systems while achieving the same beam-switching functionality
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical orientation parameter of the radiating elements through mechanical rotation. By rotating the VICTS elements to different angles relative to the incident wave, the antenna naturally transitions between narrow and broad beam patterns without requiring electronic control of phase and amplitude, significantly reducing system complexity
4Ease of manufacture
If conventional VICTS antenna is used, then low-cost, low-profile, and high-power handling capabilities are achieved, but the ability to provide dual switchable beam patterns is lacking
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the VICTS antenna into multiple distinct radiating element types within the same structure. Each element type is optimized for specific beam patterns, and they are selectively activated by rotating the antenna to different positions. This segmentation allows the single antenna to provide dual beam capabilities while maintaining the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of the VICTS design
Data Source
AI summary
An antenna array employing continuous transverse stubs as radiating elements includes a first conductive plate structure including a first set of continuous transverse stubs arranged on a first surface, and a second set of continuous transverse stubs arranged on the first surface, wherein a geometry of the first set of continuous transverse stubs is different from a geometry of the second set of continuous transverse stubs. A second conductive plate structure is disposed in a spaced relationship relative to the first conductive plate structure, the second conductive plate structure having a surface parallel to the first surface. A relative rotation apparatus imparts relative rotational movement between the first conductive plate structure and the second conductive plate structure.