Wireless communication applications of the variable inclination continuous transverse stub array for Ku‐band applications

Abstract

A wideband and continuous beam steering variable inclination continuous transverse stub antenna array is presented in the communication. The proposed antenna consists of a continuous transverse stub (CTS) array and a line source generator (LSG). These two parts are designed and optimized separately. The LSG structure is generated by a Pillbox transition. The CTS array is composed of 20 radiating slots and is fed by a corporate-feed network. The corporate-feed network adopts a series-parallel hybrid structure to realize lower profile and high-efficiency performance. The relative rotation movement between the CTS array and the LSG generates a phase gradient on the radiation part such that the proposed antenna can obtain a continuous beam in the upper hemisphere. Based on the array synthesis encryption sampling technology theory, the relationship between the mechanical rotation angle and the beam direction is analysed and obtained. To validate the antenna concept, the antenna is fabricated and measured. The simulation and measurement results are in good agreement. Through the rotation of the CTS array, the designed antenna achieves a ±56°scan. The measured results show that the array can achieve an impedance bandwidth of 16% in Ku-band at the centre frequency of 12 GHz with 67% aperture efficiency. The proposed antenna has the characteristics of low profile, high efficiency, large coverage, and wideband, which is well suited for mobile satellite communication.