Search NASASearch

NASA NTRS · 20210003852

Microstrip Reflectarray with Elements Having Variable Rotation Angles

Abstract

Two Ka-band, half-meter diameter, circularly polarized microstrip reflectarrays have been developed. Although both antennas demonstrated excellent efficiencies, adequate bandwidths, and low average sidelobe and cross-pol levels, the one with variable rotation angles achieved superior overall performance. It is believed that these are electrically the largest microstrip reflectarrays (6924 elements with 42 dB gain) ever developed. It is also the first time that circular polarization has been actually demonstrated using microstrip patch elements. All these reflectarrays have dual-linear and dual-circular polarization capabilities, but only linear polarizations were demonstrated.

Explore related subjects

Keep this discovery

Explore connections, maps & timelines

BibTeXRIS

Pogorzelski, Ronald J., Huang, John. 1997-06-13. Microstrip Reflectarray with Elements Having Variable Rotation Angles. https://ntrs.nasa.gov/citations/20210003852

Cite the original work for its findings. Save a collection to share your selection of sources.

KEEP EXPLORING

Related reports

Conformal Lightweight Antenna Structures for Aeronautical Communication Technologies

This project is to develop antennas which enable beyond line of sight (BLOS) command and control for UAVs. We will take advantage of newly assigned provisional Ku-band spectrum for UAVs and use unique antenna designs to avoid interference with ground systems. This will involve designing antennas with high isotropic effective radiated power (EIRP) and ultra-low sidelobes. The antennas will be made with polymer aerogel as a substrate to both reduce weight and improve performance, as demonstrated in an Aero Seedling. In addition, designing the antennas to be conformal to the aircraft fuselage will reduce drag.

antennas

3D Printing Multi-Functionality: Embedded RF Antennas and Components

Significant research and press has recently focused on the fabrication freedom of Additive Manufacturing (AM) to create both conceptual models and final end-use products. This flexibility allows design modifications to be immediately reflected in 3D printed structures, creating new paradigms within the manufacturing process. 3D printed products will inevitably be fabricated locally, with unit-level customization, optimized to unique mission requirements. However, for the technology to be universally adopted, the processes must be enhanced to incorporate additional technologies; such as electronics, actuation, and electromagnetics. Recently, a novel 3D printing platform, Multi3D manufacturing, was funded by the presidential initiative for revitalizing manufacturing in the USA using 3D printing (America Makes - also known as the National Additive Manufacturing Innovation Institute). The Multi3D system specifically targets 3D printed electronics in arbitrary form; and building upon the potential of this system, this paper describes RF antennas and components fabricated through the integration of material extrusion 3D printing with embedded wire, mesh, and RF elements.

antennas