Compact, dual-beam, phased array antenna architecture

摘要

A dual beam electronically scanned phased array antenna architecture is provided. The architecture includes a plurality of antenna modules substantially orthogonally connected to a signal distribution board. Each module includes a radiator board substantially orthogonally connected to a first end of a support mandrel. Each radiator board includes a plurality of radio frequency (RF) radiating elements. Each module additionally includes pair of chip carriers mounted to opposing sides of the respective mandrel and interconnected to the respective radiator board. Furthermore, each module includes signal transfer board formed to fit around a second end of the mandrel such that the signal transfer board is compressed between the mandrel the signal distribution board. Each module further includes a pair of signal distribution bridges mounted to the opposing sides of the mandrel. Each signal distribution bridge interconnects the respective chip carriers with the signal transfer board and distributes digital, DC and/or RF signals received from the signal transfer board to a plurality of beam scanning circuits included in the respective chip carrier. The orthogonal relationship between the RF radiating elements and the beam scanning circuits allow the modules to be connected to the signal distribution board in close proximity to each other such that the RF radiating elements of adjacent modules have a spacing of one-half wavelength or less. Therefore, a high frequency, dual beam electronically scanned phased array antenna can be constructed that is capable of having scanning angles of 60° or greater. Therefore, a high frequency, dual beam'electronically scanned phased array antenna can be constructed that is capable of having very wide scanning angles of without introducing grating lobes.