RF Components for Satellite Communications System Using Insular Guides

Epsilon Lambda Electronics Corp

West Chicago, IL  
 

Low loss ceramic insular waveguide feed lines for phase scanned patch array antennas in the Ka Band

• Beam scanning in two planes was demonstrated by simple mechanical motion of a conducting image plane
• Ceramic insular guides gave higher efficiency than microstrip feed lines in aperture-fed patch array antennas
• A slight mechanical displacement of a conducting image plane phase shifts in the antenna and allows beam steering of the energy radiated
• The principle of the innovation was demonstrated in the 264 element scannable antenna that was delivered to a commercial customer

• A $750K Air Force contract was awarded to develop a W-band (76 GHz) phase scanned antenna with transceiver for automotive forward looking radar market for use in intelligent cruise control
• Received $1.2M under Fast Track funding for a companion commercialization contract
• Two antenna/transceiver models were fabricated, delivered and tested on an automobile by the commercialization customer
• Total of $239K in Phase III funding from NASA GRC, NASA Illinois Commercialization Center, and the Garrett Morgan Commercialization Initiative

• The phase-scanned antenna has been patented (#6100846) and has potential applications to radar and communication throughout the millimeter frequency bands
• Applications include space communications, tactical radar target seekers, and short range radar

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Communications

Curator: SBIR Support                10/25/05