Multi-beam reflector antenna system with a simple beamforming network
US6366256B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Sep 20, 2000 |
| Grant date | Apr 2, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Sep 20, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04B7/18515
- WIPO fieldTelecommunications
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
An antenna system and method for generating a desired contiguous spot beam pattern, and a signal is disclosed. The contiguous spot beam generating antenna system comprises a reflector system configured in a side-fed Cassegrain (SFOC) configuration, an array of feed horns comprising at least a subset of feed horns for illuminating the reflector system, and a beamforming network, communicatively coupled to the array of feed horns, for controlling an excitation of the subset of the feed horns in the array of feed horns. The method comprises illuminating a side fed offset Cassegrain reflector system with an RF signal emanating from an array of feed horns, and controlling an excitation of the subset of the feed horns. The present invention provides a beamformer network that can produce uniform performance over wide scan angles, is easier to integrate and test, that can change the beam pattern on orbit, and that provides a more complete utilization of space assets without dramatically increasing the cost of manufacturing and operating a satellite. The use of a SFOC configuration or other wide scanning antenna permits the use of a simple beamforming network while maintaining excellent bea…
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.