Reflectarray Feeds Augmented With Size-Reducing GRIN Lenses for Improved Power Handling and Aperture Efficiency

Eric B. Whiting, Galestan MacKertich-Sengerdy, Ryan J. Chaky, Colin A. Mussman, Sawyer D. Campbell, Pingjuan L. Werner, Douglas H. Werner

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

7 Scopus citations

Abstract

The feed for reflectarrays and transmitarrays is crucial for determining the overall antenna aperture efficiency, gain, and power handling. In the past, several methods, such as altering the horn shape to achieve higher modes, have been employed to modify the feed radiation pattern to improve these key parameters. However, another approach is to use gradient index (GRIN) lenses, which offer unprecedented control over the radiation pattern and can be used to shrink the overall antenna. In this paper, we demonstrate highly effective approaches for optimizing GRIN lenses to achieve different design objectives including high gain radiation with a compact feed as well as improved aperture efficiency and power handling. Additive manufacturing is employed to fabricate the lenses, and measured results agree well with simulations.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)546-557
Number of pages12
JournalIEEE Open Journal of Antennas and Propagation
Volume4
DOIs
StatePublished - 2023

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Reflectarray Feeds Augmented With Size-Reducing GRIN Lenses for Improved Power Handling and Aperture Efficiency'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this