[go: up one dir, main page]

EP2127025B1 - Reconfigurable radiant array antenna - Google Patents

Reconfigurable radiant array antenna Download PDF

Info

Publication number
EP2127025B1
EP2127025B1 EP07858030A EP07858030A EP2127025B1 EP 2127025 B1 EP2127025 B1 EP 2127025B1 EP 07858030 A EP07858030 A EP 07858030A EP 07858030 A EP07858030 A EP 07858030A EP 2127025 B1 EP2127025 B1 EP 2127025B1
Authority
EP
European Patent Office
Prior art keywords
film
radiating
array antenna
antenna according
reconfigurable
Prior art date
Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
Active
Application number
EP07858030A
Other languages
German (de)
French (fr)
Other versions
EP2127025A1 (en
Inventor
Hervé Legay
Michel Soudet
Eric Labiole
Current Assignee (The listed assignees may be inaccurate. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation or warranty as to the accuracy of the list.)
Thales SA
Original Assignee
Thales SA
Priority date (The priority date is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the date listed.)
Filing date
Publication date
Application filed by Thales SA filed Critical Thales SA
Publication of EP2127025A1 publication Critical patent/EP2127025A1/en
Application granted granted Critical
Publication of EP2127025B1 publication Critical patent/EP2127025B1/en
Active legal-status Critical Current
Anticipated expiration legal-status Critical

Links

Images

Classifications

    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/44—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system varying the electric or magnetic characteristics of reflecting, refracting, or diffracting devices associated with the radiating element
    • H01Q3/46—Active lenses or reflecting arrays
    • H—ELECTRICITY
    • H01—ELECTRIC ELEMENTS
    • H01Q—ANTENNAS, i.e. RADIO AERIALS
    • H01Q3/00—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system
    • H01Q3/12—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems
    • H01Q3/16—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems for varying relative position of primary active element and a reflecting device
    • H01Q3/20—Arrangements for changing or varying the orientation or the shape of the directional pattern of the waves radiated from an antenna or antenna system using mechanical relative movement between primary active elements and secondary devices of antennas or antenna systems for varying relative position of primary active element and a reflecting device wherein the primary active element is fixed and the reflecting device is movable

Definitions

  • the field of the invention is that of embedded network antennas, for example on satellites, reflector array antennas type (still commonly referred to as “reflectarray antennas”) or phased array antennas (or “Phased”).
  • Array Antennas are embedded network antennas, for example on satellites, reflector array antennas type (still commonly referred to as “reflectarray antennas”) or phased array antennas (or “Phased”).
  • the prior art FRA 2874749 describes a reconfigurable reflector array antenna.
  • the term "reflecting array antenna” is understood to mean an antenna comprising radiating elements, also called phase-shifting cells, defining a reflective network and charged to intercept with minimal losses of the waves comprising signals to be transmitted, delivered by a primary source, in order to reflect them in a chosen direction, called the pointing direction.
  • phase-shifting cell provides it with phase control devices.
  • phase controls can be achieved by providing the radiating elements with controllable components (diodes, MEMS); this is called an active reflector network, or by modifying the physical form of the radiating element; we then speak of a passive reflector network.
  • MEMS controllable components
  • the active reflector network makes it possible to realize reconfigurable covers at the cost of a significant complexity, the passive reflector network is mainly attractive for its simple planar geometry.
  • each reflector array consists of a set comprising a support with reflector patterns generally etched, a spacer and a ground plane, although the latter two elements are not not specific to the cover, the spacer may typically be a honeycomb structure.
  • the present invention proposes a device for storing the radiating networks in a compact volume and in particular for storing the substrates carrying the radiating patterns in means that can be easily deployed in space. It thus allows the implementation of a large number of radiating networks under a footprint and under a reduced mass compared to a concept using as many radiant networks constituted by rigid panels and the interchangeability in flight of the covers of an antenna. changing as needed the radiating network.
  • the reconfigurable network antenna comprises a source capable of delivering signals in the form of a wave, the loading and placement means making it possible to selectively position a subset of radiating patterns opposite the source. .
  • the reconfigurable network antenna comprises a beam forming distributor supplying the radiating elements so as to constitute a direct radiation type antenna.
  • the radiating patterns may be coupled to controllable phase control devices which may be of the diode or MEMS type.
  • the scrolling system of the radiating pattern film comprises a first motorized drum and a second drum with a permanent return moment.
  • the radiating networks further comprise a ground plane and a spacer.
  • the scrolling system further comprises spacing rollers, fixed on a ground plane and permitting the scrolling of the patterning film radiating at a fixed distance from said ground plane so as to impose a space between said film and said ground plane.
  • the film is thus storable by winding. It is then sufficient to position it by unwinding in front of a single ground plane so that it is operational, allowing to put in relation to the source a selected radiating network.
  • the film is positioned on a support whose distance to the carrier film of the radiating patterns can be adjusted.
  • the first film comprises, on one and the same face, first constituent parts of the radiating patterns and second constituent parts of the ground plans.
  • An adequate unwinding operation makes it possible to match a first film portion and a second portion so as to constitute the following assembly: radiating patterns / spacer constituted by the air / a ground plane.
  • the first film has on one of its faces, the radiating patterns and on the other side the ground plane.
  • the antenna comprises: a motorized drum, an armature and means for deploying said film on the surface of the armature.
  • the deployment means comprise a reel of the film, and a cable for pulling the film from the reel, said cable being driven by a drum.
  • the deployment means comprise pulleys for scrolling said film.
  • the reconfigurable network antenna further comprises means for scrolling a second film.
  • the antenna further comprises an armature having a first face and a second face and deployment means of the first film on said first face and the second film on said second face so as to position against a selected area of said first film and a selected area of said second film.
  • the deployment means of said films comprise a first reel of the first film, a second reel of the second film and two cables for drawing said films, said cables being driven by a drum.
  • the deployment means comprise pulleys for scrolling said films.
  • the antenna comprises a sensor for reading position information etched on an edge of the first and / or second film.
  • the reconfigurable network antenna comprises a set of frames for deploying in parallel and in the same plane, several films comprising sub-sets of radiating patterns for selectively positioning a subset of patterns. radiating opposite the source.
  • the reconfigurable reflector array antenna of the invention can be embedded on a geostationary telecommunication satellite in Ku-band (12 to 18 GHz). But, the invention is not limited to this application. It concerns in fact radar antennas embedded on satellites, flying possibly in formation, or on airplanes or spacecraft, such as shuttles. Thus, the invention is well suited to SAR antennas [synthetic aperture radar, C-band (4 to 8 GHz) or X-band (8 to 12 GHz)].
  • the array antenna is a reflector array antenna type antenna and comprises a support structure SS adapted to be secured to a satellite (not shown) and on which is all d first fixed, in a chosen location, a primary source S responsible for delivering at a selected solid angle DPS main direction, called pointing direction of the source, waves comprising signals to be transmitted.
  • the source is for example made in the form of a horn, the radiating elements are reflective elements capable of reflecting the waves comprising the signals to be transmitted.
  • the antenna also comprises a system for deploying a film F 1 carrying different subsets reflective patterns constituting the reflector networks, with respect to a fixed ground plane by maintaining a spacer between said reflector gratings and the ground plane.
  • the solution is to arrange the networks each comprising a set of reflective patterns, one after the other on a thin film. More precisely, the film is wound on two drums T 1 and T 2 . By the rotation of the drums, the film passes in front of a mass plane PM from which it is separated by a constant distance maintained by two spacer rollers re 1 and re 2 positioned relative to the ground plane.
  • the space E (in this case the space) between the film and the ground plane replaces the spacer of the reflector network.
  • the film is held flat under a tension force generated by a moment acting continuously on the drum T 1 or it is wound. This moment can be generated by a torsional spring located inside the drum or any other device. Variations thermo-elastic type are thus compensated permanently which allows a maintenance of the flatness of the substrate.
  • the change of the subset of reflective patterns is obtained by winding the film on the drum T 2 until the desired pattern is positioned in front of the ground plane and in front of the source.
  • a motorization on the drum T 2 associated with a position sensor allows the positioning and its control.
  • These functions can be obtained by a stepper motor and a gearbox for example gearing, located in the drum T 2 associated with a sensor reading position information etched on an edge of the film or any other device for these functions.
  • the film scrolls in one direction or the other and is kept wound on the two drums by the action of the permanent moment acting on the drum T 1 .
  • the movements of the reel and the drum can also be obtained by a common motor (gear drive notched pulley for example), in this case a torsion spring must make the connection between the outer portion of the reel and its axis to ensure the permanent moment whatever the state of winding of the film.
  • the film comprises a reflector network RRi highlighted in figure 1b and positioned selectively opposite the source, (whereas the neighboring networks RR i-1 and RR i + 1 are represented as not being operational), each reflector network comprises several phase-shifting cells capable of imposing on the waves (delivered by the source) a phase shift with a selected frequency phase dispersion, in order to reflect them in a chosen direction.
  • the chosen phase shift and / or phase dispersion in frequency chosen varies (s) from a reflector network RRi to another, so that the coverage area (or "spot") of the beam of the antenna, and / or the shape of this zone, vary according to the selected RRi reflector network.
  • the moving assembly must be immobilized by a known type of stacking device.
  • the low mass and low bulk of the carrier film reflector patterns wound on the drums provides an antenna with a large number of covers in a compact package.
  • the ground plane is unique for all covers which avoids accumulated carriage and the spacer is replaced by vacuum which favors the RF performance of the reflector array antenna.
  • the first film may carry the ground plane and the antenna may advantageously comprise a single motorized drum associated with the antenna.
  • the Figures 2a and 2b schematically illustrate this configuration example.
  • the figure 2a illustrates a top view of the armature Ar comprising a set of pulleys P or1 , P or2 , P or3 , on which, thanks to a cable C 1 , a single film carrying the array of reflectors / spacer / ground plane F 1 + MP is deployed from a reel D 1 .
  • the figure 2b illustrates a sectional view highlighting the scrolling system of the film having on its upper face the reflector patterns and on its underside the ground plane on the armature. The film from the reel D 1 is pulled via the cable C 1 by the motorized drum T 3 , the cable and the film thus being driven over the pulleys.
  • the antenna comprises both a first film F 1 comprising the subsets of reflector patterns stored on a first reel D 1 and a second film F 2 constituting the ground plane stored on a second reel D 2 .
  • the Figures 3a and 3b illustrate this variant in which a single drum T 3 can advantageously be used to deploy simultaneously the two films with a single engine associated with a set of two cables C 1 and C 2 and references by three pulleys Pou 1 , Pou 2 , Pou 3 .
  • the figure 4a illustrates a top view of an antenna according to the invention on board a Sat satellite and shown in the deployed position, highlighting three armatures Ar 1 , Ar 2 , Ar 3 , coupled to three reels D 11 , D 12 , D 13 , the reflector gratings being on non-rolled films F 11, F 12 , F 13 .
  • the frames are deployed from a stacking element G, the position of the source S being adjustable to be incident on a selected reflector panel.
  • the figure 4b illustrates this same antenna sectional view and highlighting the armature Ar 2 .
  • RF performance is further enhanced by the provision of an empty gap which is a spacer for excellent dielectric performance.
  • the films consist of a dielectric material, whether or not reinforced with metal etchings, or in a material which reflects electromagnetic waves of thin thickness.
  • these materials are for example of the ARLON, KAPTON, ROGERS or CUCLAD type consisting of a film with a thin thickness of 50 or 127 micrometers.
  • the flexibility of these films makes it possible to obtain, in association with the voltage maintaining devices, the required planieties which are for example of the order of 200 micrometers RMS for a Ku-band reflector network of 1mx1m.
  • the invention has previously been described in the case of a reflector array antenna but is equally applicable to antennas of the direct radiation network type.
  • the distribution of the signal to the radiating elements is no longer done using an illumination source. It is done using a beamforming splitter (also called Beam Forming Network) with access input and as many access outputs as elements Radiant.
  • the distribution network is preferably waveguide type, to reduce distribution losses. In the case where the radiating elements are small, it may be judicious to adopt a hybrid approach for the distribution network, combining a waveguide type technology for long-distance routing, and a planar technology to proximity of the radiating elements to benefit from its compactness.
  • the radiating elements are planar technology type. They include a ground plane, an excitation mode (opening in the ground plane, coupling power supply, probe supply), and one or more planar patterns (patches, see grid type etching).
  • the radiating elements are potentially equipped with lateral cavities, which increases the decoupling between radiating elements and can help in their development.
  • the reconfiguration of the diagram is effected by modifying the phase of the signal radiated by the radiating elements.
  • the way to proceed may be to change the form.
  • the networks can be made on two films.
  • the figure 5 illustrates such a configuration highlighting two films F 1 and F 1 , carrying the reflective patterns.
  • Drums T 1 , T 1 ', T 2 , T 2 allow to ensure the scrolling of said films.
  • the desired spacings are calibrated by means of spacer rollers re 1 , re 1 ' , re 2 , re 2' positioned relative to a support.

Landscapes

  • Variable-Direction Aerials And Aerial Arrays (AREA)
  • Aerials With Secondary Devices (AREA)
  • Details Of Aerials (AREA)

Abstract

The antenna has a set of radiating networks (RRi), where each network comprises a radiating pattern sub-assembly for radiating the signal emitted in a specified direction. Charging unit and placing units of the radiating network are provided for placing the radiating network between the charging and placing units in a selective position of the emission. The charging and placing units comprise an unwinding system of a film with the radiating pattern sub-assembly selectively positioning the radiating pattern sub-assembly in the emitting position.

Description

Le domaine de l'invention est celui des antennes réseaux embarquées, par exemple sur des satellites, de type antennes réseau réflecteur (encore couramment dénommées en terminologie anglo-saxonne « reflectarray antennas ») ou les antennes réseau à commande de phase (ou « Phased Array Antennas »).The field of the invention is that of embedded network antennas, for example on satellites, reflector array antennas type (still commonly referred to as "reflectarray antennas") or phased array antennas (or "Phased"). Array Antennas ").

L'art antérieur FRA 2874749 décrit une antenne réseau réflecteur reconfigurable.The prior art FRA 2874749 describes a reconfigurable reflector array antenna.

On entend ici par « antenne réseau réflecteur» une antenne comportant des éléments rayonnants, également appélés cellules déphaseuses, définissant un réseau réflecteur et chargés d'intercepter avec des pertes minimales des ondes comportant des signaux à transmettre, délivrées par une source primaire, afin de les réfléchir dans une direction choisie, appelée direction de pointage.Here, the term "reflecting array antenna" is understood to mean an antenna comprising radiating elements, also called phase-shifting cells, defining a reflective network and charged to intercept with minimal losses of the waves comprising signals to be transmitted, delivered by a primary source, in order to reflect them in a chosen direction, called the pointing direction.

Les antennes réseaux précitées sont intéressantes du fait qu'elles permettent de dépointer un faisceau rayonnant vers une zone de couverture (ou « spot ») donnée ou de former le faisceau de sorte qu'il épouse un contour géographique. Pour passer d'une zone de couverture à une autre, il faut alors reconfigurer le rayonnement de chaque cellule déphaseuse, en la dotant de dispositifs de contrôle de phase. Ces contrôles de phase peuvent être réalisés en dotant les éléments rayonnants de composants commandables (diodes, MEMS) ; on parle alors de réseau réflecteur actif, ou en modifiant la forme physique de l'élément rayonnant ; on parle alors de réseau réflecteur passif.The above-mentioned network antennas are interesting because they make it possible to detach a beam radiating towards a given coverage area (or "spot") or to form the beam so that it follows a geographical outline. To switch from one coverage area to another, it is then necessary to reconfigure the radiation of each phase-shifting cell, providing it with phase control devices. These phase controls can be achieved by providing the radiating elements with controllable components (diodes, MEMS); this is called an active reflector network, or by modifying the physical form of the radiating element; we then speak of a passive reflector network.

Le réseau réflecteur actif permet de réaliser des couvertures reconfigurables au prix d'une compléxité significative, le réseau réflecteur passif est principalement attractif pour sa géométrie planaire simple.The active reflector network makes it possible to realize reconfigurable covers at the cost of a significant complexity, the passive reflector network is mainly attractive for its simple planar geometry.

Il est aussi possible de réaliser des missions reconfigurables en vol à l'aide de réseaux réflecteurs passifs, par interchangeabilité des réseaux réflecteurs devant la source d'une antenne. Ceci conduit à embarquer autant de réseaux réflecteurs que de couvertures envisagées, sachant que chaque réseau réflecteur est constitué d'un ensemble comportant un support avec des motifs réflecteurs généralement gravés, un espaceur et un plan de masse, bien que ces deux derniers éléments ne soient pas spécifiques à la couverture, l'espaceur pouvant typiquement être une structure « nid d'abeille ».It is also possible to perform reconfigurable missions in flight using passive reflector networks, by interchangeability reflector networks in front of the source of an antenna. This leads to embedding as many reflector gratings as envisaged covers, knowing that each reflector array consists of a set comprising a support with reflector patterns generally etched, a spacer and a ground plane, although the latter two elements are not not specific to the cover, the spacer may typically be a honeycomb structure.

Plus précisément les solutions actuellement proposées consistent à stocker plusieurs réseaux réflecteurs sous forme de panneaux constitués empilés et gerbés les uns sur les autres puis à les positionner successivement en vol devant la source suivant les besoins de la couverture. Leurs inconvénients sont néanmoins :

  • Un volume conséquent notamment en face terre généré par la taille des réseaux réflecteurs stockés à coté ou sous le réseau réflecteur en cours d'opération.
  • Un nombre de couvertures limité par l'encombrement des réseaux réflecteurs à embarquer (quatre ou cinq élements).
  • Une structure de gerbage de taille en rapport avec le volume d'encombrement du groupe de réseaux réflecteurs.
  • Pour les équipements à proximité de l'antenne et pour l'antenne elle même, des champs de vue RF et thermiques pouvant être réduits par la présence des réseaux réflecteurs stockés.
More precisely, the solutions currently proposed consist in storing several reflector gratings in the form of panels constituted stacked and stacked one on top of the other and then positioning them successively in flight in front of the source according to the needs of the cover. Their disadvantages are nevertheless:
  • A significant volume especially on the ground face generated by the size of the reflector networks stored next to or under the reflector network during operation.
  • A number of covers limited by the size of the reflector networks to embark (four or five elements).
  • A stacking structure of size in relation to the bulk volume of the group of reflector networks.
  • For equipment near the antenna and for the antenna itself, RF and thermal fields of view can be reduced by the presence of the stored reflector networks.

Dans ce contexte et pour résoudre les problèmes précités, la présente invention propose un dispositif permettant de stocker les réseaux rayonnants dans un volume compact et notamment de stocker les substrats porteurs des motifs rayonnants dans des moyens pouvant être facilement déployés dans l'espace. Elle permet ainsi la mise en oeuvre d'un grand nombre de réseaux rayonnants sous un encombrement et sous une masse réduite par rapport à un concept utilisant autant de réseaux rayonnants constitués en panneaux rigides et l'interchangeabilité en vol des couvertures d'une antenne en changeant suivant les besoins le réseau rayonnant.In this context and to solve the aforementioned problems, the present invention proposes a device for storing the radiating networks in a compact volume and in particular for storing the substrates carrying the radiating patterns in means that can be easily deployed in space. It thus allows the implementation of a large number of radiating networks under a footprint and under a reduced mass compared to a concept using as many radiant networks constituted by rigid panels and the interchangeability in flight of the covers of an antenna. changing as needed the radiating network.

Plus précisément l'invention a pour objet une antenne réseau reconfigurable propre à délivrer des signaux sous forme d'onde comprenant un ensemble de réseaux rayonnants, chaque réseau rayonnant comportant un sous-ensemble de motifs capable de réfléchir ou d'émettre les signaux dans une direction donnée et des moyens de chargement et de placement desdits réseaux rayonnants pour placer l'un d'entre eux dans une position sélectionnée d'émission, caractérisée en ce que :

  • les moyens de chargement et de placement comprennent un système de mise en défilement d'un premier film comportant les sous-ensembles de motifs rayonnants permettant de positionner sélectivement un sous-ensemble de motifs rayonnants.
More specifically, the subject of the invention is a reconfigurable network antenna capable of delivering signals in the form of a wave comprising a set of radiating networks, each radiating network comprising a subset of patterns capable of reflecting or emitting the signals in a given direction and means for loading and placing said radiating networks to place one of them in a selected transmission position, characterized in that:
  • the loading and placing means comprise a scrolling system of a first film comprising sub-sets of radiating patterns for selectively positioning a subset of radiating patterns.

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne réseau reconfigurable comprend une source propre à délivrer des signaux sous forme d'onde, les moyens de chargement et de placement permettant de positionner sélectivement un sous-ensemble de motifs rayonnants en regard de la source .According to a variant of the invention, the reconfigurable network antenna comprises a source capable of delivering signals in the form of a wave, the loading and placement means making it possible to selectively position a subset of radiating patterns opposite the source. .

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne réseau reconfigurable comprend un répartiteur de formation de faisceau alimentant les élements rayonnants de manière à constituer une antenne de type à rayonnement direct.According to a variant of the invention, the reconfigurable network antenna comprises a beam forming distributor supplying the radiating elements so as to constitute a direct radiation type antenna.

Selon une variante de l'invention, les motifs rayonnants peuvent être couplés à des dispositifs de contrôle de phase commandables pouvant être de type diodes ou MEMS.According to a variant of the invention, the radiating patterns may be coupled to controllable phase control devices which may be of the diode or MEMS type.

Selon une variante de l'invention, le système de mise en défilement du film de motifs rayonnants comprend un premier tambour motorisé et un second tambour avec un moment de rappel permanent.According to a variant of the invention, the scrolling system of the radiating pattern film comprises a first motorized drum and a second drum with a permanent return moment.

Selon une variante de l'invention, les réseaux rayonnants comprennent en outre un plan de masse et un espaceur.According to a variant of the invention, the radiating networks further comprise a ground plane and a spacer.

Selon une variante de l'invention, le système de mise en défilement comprend en outre des rouleaux espaceurs, fixés sur un plan de masse et permettant le défilement du film de motifs rayonnant à une distance fixe dudit plan de masse de manière à imposer un espace entre ledit film et ledit plan de masse. Le film est ainsi stockable par enroulement. Il suffit alors de le positionner par déroulage devant un plan de masse unique afin qu'il soit opérationnel, permettant de mettre en regard de la source un réseau rayonnant choisi.According to a variant of the invention, the scrolling system further comprises spacing rollers, fixed on a ground plane and permitting the scrolling of the patterning film radiating at a fixed distance from said ground plane so as to impose a space between said film and said ground plane. The film is thus storable by winding. It is then sufficient to position it by unwinding in front of a single ground plane so that it is operational, allowing to put in relation to the source a selected radiating network.

Selon une variante de l'invention, le film est positionné sur un support dont la distance au film porteur des motifs rayonnants peut être ajustée.According to a variant of the invention, the film is positioned on a support whose distance to the carrier film of the radiating patterns can be adjusted.

Selon une variante de l'invention, le premier film comporte sur une même face des premières parties constitutives des motifs rayonnants et des secondes parties constitutives des plans de masse. Une opération de déroulement adéquate permet de mettre en regard une première partie de film et une seconde partie de manière à constituer l'ensemble suivant : des motifs rayonnants/espaceur constitué par l'air /un plan de masse.According to a variant of the invention, the first film comprises, on one and the same face, first constituent parts of the radiating patterns and second constituent parts of the ground plans. An adequate unwinding operation makes it possible to match a first film portion and a second portion so as to constitute the following assembly: radiating patterns / spacer constituted by the air / a ground plane.

Selon une variante de l'invention, le premier film comporte sur une de ses faces, les motifs rayonnants et sur l'autre face le plan de masse.According to a variant of the invention, the first film has on one of its faces, the radiating patterns and on the other side the ground plane.

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne comprend : un tambour motorisé, une armature et des moyens de déploiement dudit film à la surface de l'armature.According to a variant of the invention, the antenna comprises: a motorized drum, an armature and means for deploying said film on the surface of the armature.

Selon une variante de l'invention, les moyens de déploiement comprennent un dévidoir du film, et un câble permettant de tracter le film depuis le dévidoir, ledit câble étant entraîné par un tambour.According to a variant of the invention, the deployment means comprise a reel of the film, and a cable for pulling the film from the reel, said cable being driven by a drum.

Selon une variante de l'invention, les moyens de déploiement comprennent des poulies pour assurer le défilement dudit film.According to a variant of the invention, the deployment means comprise pulleys for scrolling said film.

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne réseau reconfigurable comprend en outre des moyens de mise en défilement d'un second film.According to a variant of the invention, the reconfigurable network antenna further comprises means for scrolling a second film.

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne comporte en outre une armature présentant une première face et une seconde face et des moyens de déploiement du premier film sur ladite première face et du second film sur ladite seconde face de manière à positionner en regard une zone sélectionnée dudit premier film et une zone sélectionnée dudit second film .According to a variant of the invention, the antenna further comprises an armature having a first face and a second face and deployment means of the first film on said first face and the second film on said second face so as to position against a selected area of said first film and a selected area of said second film.

Selon une variante de l'invention, les moyens de déploiement desdits films comprennent un premier dévidoir du premier film, un second dévidoir du second film et deux câbles permettant de tracter lesdits films, lesdits câbles étant entraînés par un tambour.According to a variant of the invention, the deployment means of said films comprise a first reel of the first film, a second reel of the second film and two cables for drawing said films, said cables being driven by a drum.

Selon une variante de l'invention, les moyens de déploiement comprennent des poulies pour assurer le défilement desdits films.According to a variant of the invention, the deployment means comprise pulleys for scrolling said films.

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne comporte un capteur permettant de lire des informations de position gravées sur un bord du premier et/ ou du second film.According to a variant of the invention, the antenna comprises a sensor for reading position information etched on an edge of the first and / or second film.

Selon une variante de l'invention, l'antenne réseau reconfigurable comprend un ensemble d'armatures permettant de déployer en parallèle et dans un même plan, plusieurs films comportant des sous-ensembles de motifs rayonnants permettant de positionner sélectivement un sous-ensemble de motifs rayonnants en regard de la source.According to a variant of the invention, the reconfigurable network antenna comprises a set of frames for deploying in parallel and in the same plane, several films comprising sub-sets of radiating patterns for selectively positioning a subset of patterns. radiating opposite the source.

L'invention sera mieux comprise et d'autres avantages apparaîtront à la lecture de la description qui va suivre donnée à titre non limitatif et grâce aux figures annexées parmi lesquelles :

  • la figure 1a illustre une vue en coupe d'une première variante d'antenne selon l'invention comportant le défilement d'un film comprenant les motifs rayonnants ;
  • la figure 1b illustre une vue en perspective relative à la première variante de l'invention ;
  • la figure 2a illustre une vue de dessus d'une seconde variante d'antenne selon l'invention dans laquelle le premier film est porteur également d'un plan de masse ;
  • la figure 2b illustre une vue en coupe de la seconde variante de l'invention ;
  • la figure 3a illustre une vue de dessus et en perspective d'une troisième variante d'antenne selon l'invention dans laquelle deux films en déroulement sont utilisés ;
  • la figure 3b illustre une vue en coupe de la troisième variante de l'invention ;
  • la figure 4a illustre une vue de dessus d'une variante d'antenne selon l'invention comportant plusieurs armatures permettant de déployer une matrice de réseaux réflecteurs ;
  • la figure 4b illustre une vue en coupe de la variante illustrée en figure 4a ;
  • la figure 5 illlustre une quatrième variante d'antenne selon l'invention dans laquelle l'antenne fonctionne en mode réseau à rayonnement direct ;
The invention will be better understood and other advantages will become apparent on reading the description which follows given by way of non-limiting example and by virtue of the appended figures among which:
  • the figure 1a illustrates a sectional view of a first antenna variant according to the invention comprising the scrolling of a film comprising the radiating patterns;
  • the figure 1b illustrates a perspective view relating to the first variant of the invention;
  • the figure 2a illustrates a top view of a second antenna variant according to the invention in which the first film also carries a ground plane;
  • the figure 2b illustrates a sectional view of the second variant of the invention;
  • the figure 3a illustrates a view from above and in perspective of a third antenna variant according to the invention in which two unwrapping films are used;
  • the figure 3b illustrates a sectional view of the third variant of the invention;
  • the figure 4a illustrates a top view of an antenna variant according to the invention comprising several frames for deploying an array of reflector networks;
  • the figure 4b illustrates a sectional view of the variant illustrated in figure 4a ;
  • the figure 5 illustrates a fourth antenna variant according to the invention wherein the antenna operates in direct radiation network mode;

L'antenne réseau réflecteur reconfigurable de l'invention peut être embarquée sur un satellite géostationnaire de télécommunication en bande Ku (12 à 18 GHz). Mais, l'invention n'est pas limitée à cette application. Elle concerne en effet les antennes radar embarquées sur des satellites, volant éventuellement en formation, ou sur des avions ou des engins spatiaux, tels que des navettes. Ainsi, l'invention est bien adaptée aux antennes SAR [radar à ouverture synthétique, en bande C (4 à 8 GHz) ou en bande X (8 à 12 GHz)].The reconfigurable reflector array antenna of the invention can be embedded on a geostationary telecommunication satellite in Ku-band (12 to 18 GHz). But, the invention is not limited to this application. It concerns in fact radar antennas embedded on satellites, flying possibly in formation, or on airplanes or spacecraft, such as shuttles. Thus, the invention is well suited to SAR antennas [synthetic aperture radar, C-band (4 to 8 GHz) or X-band (8 to 12 GHz)].

Dans un premier exemple de réalisation illustré en figures 1a et 1b, qui représentent respectivement une vue en coupe et une vue en perspective, l'antenne réseau est une antenne de type antenne réseau réflecteur et comprend une structure de support SS propre à être solidarisée à un satellite (non représenté) et sur laquelle est tout d'abord fixée, en un endroit choisi, une source primaire S chargée de délivrer sous un angle solide choisi de direction principale DPS, appelée direction de pointage de la source, des ondes comprenant des signaux à transmettre. La source est par exemple réalisée sous la forme d'un cornet, les élements rayonnant sont des élements réflecteurs capables de réfléchir les ondes comprenant les signaux à transmettre.In a first exemplary embodiment illustrated in figures 1a and 1b , which respectively represent a sectional view and a perspective view, the array antenna is a reflector array antenna type antenna and comprises a support structure SS adapted to be secured to a satellite (not shown) and on which is all d first fixed, in a chosen location, a primary source S responsible for delivering at a selected solid angle DPS main direction, called pointing direction of the source, waves comprising signals to be transmitted. The source is for example made in the form of a horn, the radiating elements are reflective elements capable of reflecting the waves comprising the signals to be transmitted.

L'antenne comporte également un système permettant de déployer un film F1 porteur de différents sous-ensembles de motifs réflecteurs constitutifs des réseaux réflecteurs, par rapport à un plan de masse fixe en maintenant un espaceur entre lesdits réseaux réflecteurs et le plan de masse. La solution consiste à disposer les réseaux comportant chacun un ensemble de motifs réflecteurs, les uns à la suite des autres sur un film mince. Plus précisément le film est enroulé sur deux tambours T1 et T2. Par la rotation des tambours, le film défile devant un plan de masse PM dont il est séparé par une distance constante maintenue par deux rouleaux espaceurs re1 et re2 positionnés par rapport au plan de masse. L'espace E (en l'occurrence le vide) entre le film et le plan masse remplace l'espaceur du réseau réflecteur.The antenna also comprises a system for deploying a film F 1 carrying different subsets reflective patterns constituting the reflector networks, with respect to a fixed ground plane by maintaining a spacer between said reflector gratings and the ground plane. The solution is to arrange the networks each comprising a set of reflective patterns, one after the other on a thin film. More precisely, the film is wound on two drums T 1 and T 2 . By the rotation of the drums, the film passes in front of a mass plane PM from which it is separated by a constant distance maintained by two spacer rollers re 1 and re 2 positioned relative to the ground plane. The space E (in this case the space) between the film and the ground plane replaces the spacer of the reflector network.

Le film est maintenu plan sous un effort de tension généré par un moment agissant en permanence sur le tambour T1 ou il est enroulé. Ce moment peut être généré par un ressort de torsion localisé à l'intérieur du tambour ou tout autre dispositif. Les variations de type thermo-élastique sont ainsi compensées en permanence ce qui permet un maintien de la planéité du substrat.The film is held flat under a tension force generated by a moment acting continuously on the drum T 1 or it is wound. This moment can be generated by a torsional spring located inside the drum or any other device. Variations thermo-elastic type are thus compensated permanently which allows a maintenance of the flatness of the substrate.

Le changement du sous-ensemble de motifs réflecteurs est obtenu en enroulant le film sur le tambour T2 jusqu'à ce que le motif voulu soit positionné devant le plan de masse et en face de la source. Une motorisation sur le tambour T2 associée à un capteur de position permet le positionnement et son contrôle. Ces fonctions peuvent être obtenues par un moteur pas à pas et un réducteur par exemple à engrennage, localisés dans le tambour T2 associés à un capteur lisant des informations de position gravées sur un bord du film ou tout autre dispositif permettant ces fonctions. Suivant le sens de rotation du tambour T2, le film défile dans un sens ou dans l'autre et est maintenu enroulé sur les deux tambours par l'action du moment permanent agissant sur le tambour T1. Les mouvements du devidoir et du tambour peuvent également être obtenus par une motorisation commune (entraînement par engrenage poulie crantée par exemple), dans ce cas un ressort de torsion doit faire le lien entre la partie externe du devidoir et son axe afin d'assurer le moment permanent quelque soit l'état d'enroulement du film.The change of the subset of reflective patterns is obtained by winding the film on the drum T 2 until the desired pattern is positioned in front of the ground plane and in front of the source. A motorization on the drum T 2 associated with a position sensor allows the positioning and its control. These functions can be obtained by a stepper motor and a gearbox for example gearing, located in the drum T 2 associated with a sensor reading position information etched on an edge of the film or any other device for these functions. According to the direction of rotation of the drum T 2 , the film scrolls in one direction or the other and is kept wound on the two drums by the action of the permanent moment acting on the drum T 1 . The movements of the reel and the drum can also be obtained by a common motor (gear drive notched pulley for example), in this case a torsion spring must make the connection between the outer portion of the reel and its axis to ensure the permanent moment whatever the state of winding of the film.

De manière connue, le film comporte un réseau réflecteur RRi mis en évidence en figure 1b et positionné sélectivement en regard de la source, (alors que les réseaux voisins RRi-1 et RRi+1 sont représentés comme n'étant pas opérationnels), chaque réseau réflecteur comporte plusieurs cellules déphaseuses susceptibles d'imposer aux ondes (délivrées par la source) un déphasage avec une dispersion de phase en fréquence choisie, afin de les réfléchir dans une direction choisie. Le déphasage choisi et/ou la dispersion de phase en fréquence choisie varie(nt) d'un réseau réflecteur RRi à l'autre, si bien que la zone de couverture (ou « spot ») du faisceau de l'antenne, et/ou la forme de cette zone, varient en fonction du réseau réflecteur RRi sélectionné.In known manner, the film comprises a reflector network RRi highlighted in figure 1b and positioned selectively opposite the source, (whereas the neighboring networks RR i-1 and RR i + 1 are represented as not being operational), each reflector network comprises several phase-shifting cells capable of imposing on the waves (delivered by the source) a phase shift with a selected frequency phase dispersion, in order to reflect them in a chosen direction. The chosen phase shift and / or phase dispersion in frequency chosen varies (s) from a reflector network RRi to another, so that the coverage area (or "spot") of the beam of the antenna, and / or the shape of this zone, vary according to the selected RRi reflector network.

Pendant la phase dynamique du lancement, l'ensemble mobile doit être immobilisé par un dispositif de gerbage de type connu.During the dynamic phase of the launch, the moving assembly must be immobilized by a known type of stacking device.

Après déploiement dans l'espace, la faible masse et le faible encombrement du film porteur des motifs réflecteurs enroulé sur les tambours, permet de disposer d'une antenne présentant un grand nombre de couvertures dans un ensemble compact.After deployment in space, the low mass and low bulk of the carrier film reflector patterns wound on the drums, provides an antenna with a large number of covers in a compact package.

Avantageusement, le plan masse est unique pour toutes les couvertures ce qui évite un emport cumulé et l'espaceur est remplacé par du vide ce qui favorable aux performances RF de l'antenne réseau réflecteur.Advantageously, the ground plane is unique for all covers which avoids accumulated carriage and the spacer is replaced by vacuum which favors the RF performance of the reflector array antenna.

Selon une seconde variante de l'invention particulièrement avantageuse lorsque l'on cherche à déployer plusieurs éléments d'antenne dans l'espace, le premier film peut être porteur du plan de masse et l'antenne peut comprendre avantageusement un unique tambour motorisé asssocié à une armature sur laquelle on peut faire défiler l'ensemble constitué des réseaux réflecteurs/espaceur/plan de masse, l'armature comprenant un ensemble de poulies pour permettre un tel défilement. Les figures 2a et 2b illustrent de manière schématique cet exemple de configuration. La figure 2a illustre une vue de dessus de l'armature Ar comportant un ensemble de poulies Pou1, Pou2, Pou3, sur lesquelles grâce à un câble C1, un unique film porteur de l'ensemble réseaux réflecteurs/espaceur/plan de masse F1+PM est déployé, depuis un dévidoir D1. La figure 2b illustre une vue en coupe mettant en évidence le système de mise en défilement du film comportant sur sa face dite supérieure les motifs réflecteurs et sur sa face inférieure le plan de masse, sur l'armature. Le film issu du dévidoir D1 est tracté via le câble C1 par le tambour motorisé T3, le câble et le film étant ainsi entraînés au dessus des poulies.According to a second variant of the invention which is particularly advantageous when it is desired to deploy a plurality of antenna elements in space, the first film may carry the ground plane and the antenna may advantageously comprise a single motorized drum associated with the antenna. a frame on which can be scrolled the assembly consisting of reflector networks / spacer / ground plane, the frame comprising a set of pulleys to allow such a scroll. The Figures 2a and 2b schematically illustrate this configuration example. The figure 2a illustrates a top view of the armature Ar comprising a set of pulleys P or1 , P or2 , P or3 , on which, thanks to a cable C 1 , a single film carrying the array of reflectors / spacer / ground plane F 1 + MP is deployed from a reel D 1 . The figure 2b illustrates a sectional view highlighting the scrolling system of the film having on its upper face the reflector patterns and on its underside the ground plane on the armature. The film from the reel D 1 is pulled via the cable C 1 by the motorized drum T 3 , the cable and the film thus being driven over the pulleys.

Selon une troisième variante de l'invention, l'antenne comporte à la fois un premier film F1 comprenant les sous-ensembles de motifs réflecteurs stockés sur un premier dévidoir D1 et un second film F2 constitutif du plan de masse stocké sur un second dévidoir D2. Les figures 3a et 3b illustrent cette variante dans laquelle un seul tambour T3 peut avantageusement être utilisé pour déployer simultanément les deux films avec une motorisation simple associée à un ensemble de deux câbles C1 et C2 et de renvois par trois poulies Pou1, Pou2, Pou3.According to a third variant of the invention, the antenna comprises both a first film F 1 comprising the subsets of reflector patterns stored on a first reel D 1 and a second film F 2 constituting the ground plane stored on a second reel D 2 . The Figures 3a and 3b illustrate this variant in which a single drum T 3 can advantageously be used to deploy simultaneously the two films with a single engine associated with a set of two cables C 1 and C 2 and references by three pulleys Pou 1 , Pou 2 , Pou 3 .

De manière avantageuse, pour multiplier le nombre de réseaux réflecteurs, il est possible de réaliser une matrice d'élements tels que ceux présentés dans les variantes 2 ou 3. La figure 4a illustre une vue de dessus d'une antenne selon l'invention embarquée à bord d'un satellite Sat et représentée en position déployée, mettant en évidence trois armatures Ar1, Ar2, Ar3, couplées à trois dévidoirs D11, D12, D13, les réseaux réflecteurs étant sur des films représentés non déroulés F11, F12, F13. Les armatures sont déployées à partir d'un élément de gerbage G, la position de la source S étant réglable pour être incidente vis à vis d'un panneau réflecteur choisi. La figure 4b illustre cette même antenne vue en coupe et mettant en évidence l'armature Ar2.Advantageously, to multiply the number of reflector gratings, it is possible to produce a matrix of elements such as those presented in variants 2 or 3. The figure 4a illustrates a top view of an antenna according to the invention on board a Sat satellite and shown in the deployed position, highlighting three armatures Ar 1 , Ar 2 , Ar 3 , coupled to three reels D 11 , D 12 , D 13 , the reflector gratings being on non-rolled films F 11, F 12 , F 13 . The frames are deployed from a stacking element G, the position of the source S being adjustable to be incident on a selected reflector panel. The figure 4b illustrates this same antenna sectional view and highlighting the armature Ar 2 .

Selon l'invention, il devient possible d'embarquer une antenne compacte et capable de réaliser un grand nombre de couvertures différentes eu utilisant le principe des réseaux réflecteurs plans. Les performances RF sont de plus confortées par la constitution d'un espacement vide qui constitue un espaceur d'excellentes performances diélectriques.According to the invention, it becomes possible to embark a compact antenna capable of producing a large number of different covers using the principle of planar reflector gratings. RF performance is further enhanced by the provision of an empty gap which is a spacer for excellent dielectric performance.

De manière générale, les films sont constitués par un materiau dielectrique armé ou non supportant des gravures métalliques ou dans un materiau réfléchissant les ondes électromagnétiques en épaisseur mince. Ces matériaux sont par exemple de type ARLON, KAPTON, ROGERS ou CUCLAD constitués en film d' épaisseur mince de 50 ou 127 micromètres. La souplesse de ces films permet d'obtenir en association avec les dispositifs de maintien en tension les planeiétés requises qui sont par exemple de l'ordre de 200 micromètres RMS pour un réseau reflecteur en bande Ku de 1mx1m .In general, the films consist of a dielectric material, whether or not reinforced with metal etchings, or in a material which reflects electromagnetic waves of thin thickness. These materials are for example of the ARLON, KAPTON, ROGERS or CUCLAD type consisting of a film with a thin thickness of 50 or 127 micrometers. The flexibility of these films makes it possible to obtain, in association with the voltage maintaining devices, the required planieties which are for example of the order of 200 micrometers RMS for a Ku-band reflector network of 1mx1m.

Il devient possible d'embarquer selon l'invention une dizaine d'ensembles de motifs réflecteurs présentant une surface de l'ordre du mètre carré.It becomes possible to embark according to the invention a dozen sets of reflector patterns having a surface of the order of one square meter.

L'invention a été précédemment décrite dans le cas d' antenne de type réseau réflecteur mais est toute aussi applicable à des antennes de type réseau à rayonnement direct.The invention has previously been described in the case of a reflector array antenna but is equally applicable to antennas of the direct radiation network type.

Dans ce cas, la répartition du signal vers les éléments rayonnants ne se fait plus à l'aide d'une source illuminatrice. Elle se fait à l'aide d'un répartiteur de formation de faisceau (également dénommé Beam Forming Network) disposant d'un accès d'entrée et d'autant d'accès de sorties que d'éléments rayonnants. Le réseau de répartition est préférentiellement de type guide d'onde, pour réduire les pertes de distribution. Dans le cas où les éléments rayonnants sont de petite taille, il peut être judiscieux d'adopter une approche hybride pour le réseau de répartition, combinant une technologie de type guide d'onde pour le routage sur des grandes distances, et une technologie planaire à proximité des éléments rayonnants pour bénéficier de sa compacité.In this case, the distribution of the signal to the radiating elements is no longer done using an illumination source. It is done using a beamforming splitter (also called Beam Forming Network) with access input and as many access outputs as elements Radiant. The distribution network is preferably waveguide type, to reduce distribution losses. In the case where the radiating elements are small, it may be judicious to adopt a hybrid approach for the distribution network, combining a waveguide type technology for long-distance routing, and a planar technology to proximity of the radiating elements to benefit from its compactness.

Les éléments rayonnants sont de type technologie planaire. Ils comprennent un plan de masse, un mode d'excitation (ouverture dans le plan de masse, alimentation par couplage, alimentation par sonde), et un ou plusieurs motifs planaires (patchs, voir gravure de type grillagée). Les éléments rayonnants sont potentiellement dotés de cavités latérales, qui accroit le découplage entre éléments rayonnants et peut aider à leur mise au point.The radiating elements are planar technology type. They include a ground plane, an excitation mode (opening in the ground plane, coupling power supply, probe supply), and one or more planar patterns (patches, see grid type etching). The radiating elements are potentially equipped with lateral cavities, which increases the decoupling between radiating elements and can help in their development.

La reconfiguration du diagramme s'opère en modifiant la phase du signal rayonné par les éléments rayonnants. La façon de procéder peut consister à en modifier la forme. Toutefois, il est également nécessaire d'adapter l'élément rayonnant à l'accès de sortie du réseau formateur. Aussi, pour garantir simultanément l'adaptation et la capacité de déphaser, il est avantageux de doter l'élément rayonnant de deux niveaux de motifs rayonnants. En ce faisant, on accroit également la bande passante de l'antenne.The reconfiguration of the diagram is effected by modifying the phase of the signal radiated by the radiating elements. The way to proceed may be to change the form. However, it is also necessary to adapt the radiating element to the output access of the training network. Also, to simultaneously ensure the adaptation and the ability to phase out, it is advantageous to provide the radiating element with two levels of radiating patterns. By doing this, we also increase the bandwidth of the antenna.

Dans ce cas les réseaux peuvent être réalisés sur deux films. La figure 5 illustre une telle configuration mettant en évidence deux films F1 et F1, porteurs des motifs réflecteurs. Des tambours T1, T1', T2, T2, permettent d'assurer le défilement desdits films. Les espacements souhaités sont calibrés grâce à des rouleaux espaceurs re1, re1', re2, re2' positionnés par rapport à un support.In this case the networks can be made on two films. The figure 5 illustrates such a configuration highlighting two films F 1 and F 1 , carrying the reflective patterns. Drums T 1 , T 1 ', T 2 , T 2 , allow to ensure the scrolling of said films. The desired spacings are calibrated by means of spacer rollers re 1 , re 1 ' , re 2 , re 2' positioned relative to a support.

Claims (16)

  1. A reconfigurable array antenna capable of providing waveform signals, comprising a set of radiating arrays (RRi), each array including a subset of patterns capable of radiating the emitted signals in a given direction and means for loading and positioning said radiating arrays so that one of them is placed in a selected emitting position, characterised in that:
    - the means for loading and positioning comprise a system for winding a first film (F1), including the subsets of radiating patterns allowing selective positioning of a subset of radiating patterns in an emitting position, said system for winding a film of radiating patterns comprising a first motorised drum (T1) and a second drum (T2) having a permanent drawback moment.
  2. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 1, characterised in that it includes a source (S) capable of providing waveform signals, the means for loading and positioning allowing selective positioning of a subset of radiating patterns opposite the source.
  3. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 1, characterised in that it includes a beam formation diffuser supplying the radiating elements so as to constitute a direct radiating type antenna.
  4. The reconfigurable array antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterised in that the radiating patterns are coupled to controllable phase control devices which may be of a diode or MEMS type.
  5. The reconfigurable array antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterised in that the radiating arrays further comprise a volume plane (PM) and a spacer (E).
  6. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 2, characterised in that the winding system further comprises spacer rollers (re1, re2), mounted on a volume plane and allowing a film of radiating patterns to be wound at a fixed distance from said volume plane in order to create a space between said film and said volume plane.
  7. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 6, characterised in that the first film comprises the radiating patterns on one of its surfaces and the volume plane on the other surface.
  8. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 7, characterised in that it comprises:
    - a motorised drum (T3);
    - a bar (Ar):
    - means for deploying said film on the surface of the bar.
  9. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 8, characterised in that the deployment means comprise a film reel (D1) and a cable (C1) allowing the film to be pulled, said cable being driven by the drum (T3).
  10. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 9, characterised in that the deployment means comprise pulleys for winding said film.
  11. The reconfigurable reflector array antenna according to claim 1, characterised in that it further comprises means for winding a second film (F1, F2).
  12. The reconfigurable array antenna according to claim 11, characterised in that it comprises a bar (Ar) having a first surface and a second surface, means for deploying the first film on said first surface and the second film on said second surface in order to be positioned opposite a selected zone of said first film and a selected zone of said second film.
  13. The reconfigurable reflector array antenna according to claim 12, characterised in that the deployment means for said films include a first reel for the first film, a second reel for the second film and two cables for pulling said films, said cables being driven by a drum (T3).
  14. The reconfigurable reflector array antenna according to any one of claims 12 or 13, characterised in that the deployment means include pulleys for winding said films.
  15. The reconfigurable reflector array antenna according to any one of claims 1 to 9, characterised in that it further comprises a sensor for reading the position information engraved on an edge of the first and/or second film.
  16. The reconfigurable reflector array antenna according to any one of claims 9 to 15, characterised in that it comprises a set of bars for deploying in parallel, and in the same plane, several films comprising the subsets of radiating patterns.
EP07858030A 2006-12-27 2007-12-21 Reconfigurable radiant array antenna Active EP2127025B1 (en)

Applications Claiming Priority (2)

Application Number Priority Date Filing Date Title
FR0655975A FR2911011B1 (en) 2006-12-27 2006-12-27 RECONFIGURABLE RADIANT ARRAY ANTENNA
PCT/EP2007/064414 WO2008080894A1 (en) 2006-12-27 2007-12-21 Reconfigurable radiant array antenna

Publications (2)

Publication Number Publication Date
EP2127025A1 EP2127025A1 (en) 2009-12-02
EP2127025B1 true EP2127025B1 (en) 2010-06-16

Family

ID=38442519

Family Applications (1)

Application Number Title Priority Date Filing Date
EP07858030A Active EP2127025B1 (en) 2006-12-27 2007-12-21 Reconfigurable radiant array antenna

Country Status (11)

Country Link
US (1) US8085212B2 (en)
EP (1) EP2127025B1 (en)
JP (1) JP4918694B2 (en)
CN (1) CN101573834A (en)
AT (1) ATE471580T1 (en)
CA (1) CA2674132C (en)
DE (1) DE602007007248D1 (en)
ES (1) ES2345170T3 (en)
FR (1) FR2911011B1 (en)
RU (1) RU2406189C1 (en)
WO (1) WO2008080894A1 (en)

Families Citing this family (14)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
FR2936906B1 (en) 2008-10-07 2011-11-25 Thales Sa OPTIMIZED ARRANGEMENT REFLECTOR NETWORK AND ANTENNA HAVING SUCH A REFLECTIVE NETWORK
CN102117971B (en) * 2011-01-06 2013-09-25 西安电子科技大学 Low-scattering plane-reflective array antenna
FR2971094B1 (en) * 2011-01-31 2013-10-25 Centre Nat Etd Spatiales MULTI-REFERENCE ANTENNA DEVICE
RU2458435C1 (en) * 2011-03-25 2012-08-10 Российская Федерация, от имени которой выступает Министерство промышленности и торговли Drive of slotted guide antenna rotation
RU2474019C1 (en) * 2011-07-12 2013-01-27 Открытое акционерное общество Центральное конструкторское бюро аппаратостроения Phased antenna array with electronic scanning in one plane
US20150091765A1 (en) * 2013-10-02 2015-04-02 Google Inc. Electrical-mechanical interface with antenna elevated above skin surface
WO2015059132A2 (en) * 2013-10-21 2015-04-30 Sony Corporation Security system, method and device
DE102016219737A1 (en) * 2016-10-11 2018-04-12 Fraunhofer-Gesellschaft zur Förderung der angewandten Forschung e.V. antenna device
US11169240B1 (en) 2018-11-30 2021-11-09 Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. Systems and methods for determining an angle of arrival of a signal at a planar array antenna
US11327142B2 (en) 2019-03-29 2022-05-10 Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. Systems and methods for locating and tracking radio frequency transmitters
US11258182B2 (en) 2019-05-31 2022-02-22 Metawave Corporation Meta-structure based reflectarrays for enhanced wireless applications
JP7517408B2 (en) 2020-03-31 2024-07-17 Ａｇｃ株式会社 Electromagnetic wave reflecting device, electromagnetic wave reflecting fence, and method for assembling an electromagnetic wave reflecting device
US10910713B1 (en) * 2020-04-24 2021-02-02 The Florida International University Board Of Trustees Reconfigurable rotational reflectarrays
RU2756707C1 (en) * 2020-09-16 2021-10-04 Общество с ограниченной ответственностью "ОКБ "Эланор" Decameter antenna with smooth mechanical adjustment of size of emitter inside radiotransparent mast

Family Cites Families (12)

* Cited by examiner, † Cited by third party
Publication number Priority date Publication date Assignee Title
US3040310A (en) * 1951-07-23 1962-06-19 Gen Electric Radar tracking and antenna systems
FR2655453A1 (en) * 1989-11-02 1991-06-07 Omarouayache Nour Eddine Device for motorway remote toll stations allowing much faster flow of vehicles by virtue of a mobile site for receiving coded signals
JPH0884015A (en) * 1994-09-14 1996-03-26 Toshiba Corp Antenna
US6023247A (en) * 1997-02-19 2000-02-08 Winegard Company Satellite dish antenna stabilizer platform
JP3987211B2 (en) * 1998-08-10 2007-10-03 富士通テン株式会社 Mobile satellite broadcasting receiver
JP2001088799A (en) * 1999-09-24 2001-04-03 Nippon Telegr & Teleph Corp <Ntt> Flat surface developing space structure
JP2002043817A (en) * 2000-07-31 2002-02-08 Green Parts Kk Planar antenna and its attachment
US6661388B2 (en) * 2002-05-10 2003-12-09 The Boeing Company Four element array of cassegrain reflector antennas
IL154525A (en) * 2003-02-18 2011-07-31 Starling Advanced Comm Ltd Low profile antenna for satellite communication
US7145515B1 (en) * 2004-01-02 2006-12-05 Duk-Yong Kim Antenna beam controlling system for cellular communication
FR2874749B1 (en) * 2004-08-31 2006-11-24 Cit Alcatel REFLECTIVE NETWORK ANTENNA WITH RECONFIGURABLE SHAPE COVER AREA WITH OR WITHOUT CHARGER
KR100656785B1 (en) * 2004-12-21 2006-12-12 한국전자통신연구원 Multiple Satellite Access Antenna System

Also Published As

Publication number Publication date
US8085212B2 (en) 2011-12-27
CA2674132A1 (en) 2008-07-10
FR2911011B1 (en) 2010-08-27
JP4918694B2 (en) 2012-04-18
RU2406189C1 (en) 2010-12-10
CN101573834A (en) 2009-11-04
ATE471580T1 (en) 2010-07-15
DE602007007248D1 (en) 2010-07-29
EP2127025A1 (en) 2009-12-02
FR2911011A1 (en) 2008-07-04
JP2010515322A (en) 2010-05-06
WO2008080894A1 (en) 2008-07-10
ES2345170T3 (en) 2010-09-16
US20100097290A1 (en) 2010-04-22
CA2674132C (en) 2012-07-17

Similar Documents

Publication Publication Date Title
EP2127025B1 (en) Reconfigurable radiant array antenna
EP0445694B1 (en) Active printed circuit antenna system having high efficiency for a scanning radar for operation in space
EP2548261B1 (en) Reflector array antenna with crossed polarization compensation and method for producing such an antenna
EP0497249B1 (en) Array antenna, particularly for space application
EP2532050B1 (en) On-board directional flat-plate antenna, vehicle comprising such an antenna, and satellite telecommunication system comprising such a vehicle
WO2011095384A1 (en) Flat-plate scanning antenna for land mobile application, vehicle comprising such an antenna, and satellite telecommunication system comprising such a vehicle
FR2697375A1 (en) Antenna network for space vehicle, retracted prior to launch - has number of partial networks, each connected by cable to space vehicle, and is modified in beam direction by relative signal phase change
EP0827475A1 (en) Improvements to observation or telecommunication satellites
EP1798809B1 (en) Device for transmitting and/or receiving electromagnetic waves for aerodynes
FR2806214A1 (en) REFLECTOR ANTENNA COMPRISING A PLURALITY OF PANELS
EP0992128A1 (en) Telecommunication system
EP1291962A1 (en) Array beamformer for spacecraft
FR2751494A1 (en) GEOSYNCHRONOUS TELECOMMUNICATIONS SATELLITE SYSTEM WHOSE SERVICE AREA CAN BE RECONFIGURED
EP0638956B1 (en) Active antenna with electronic scanning in azimuth and elevation, particularly for microwave imaging by satellite
EP4194344A1 (en) Ttc antenna arrangement for flat satellite
EP4046241B1 (en) Antenna array
FR2987941A1 (en) FLAT ANTENNA FOR TERMINAL OPERATING IN DUAL CIRCULAR POLARIZATION, AIRBORNE TERMINAL AND SATELLITE TELECOMMUNICATION SYSTEM COMPRISING AT LEAST ONE SUCH ANTENNA
WO2021175903A1 (en) Method for producing a satellite from a generic configuration of antenna elements
EP2264830B1 (en) Reflector antenna with variable coverage and operating frequnecies and a satellite with such antenna
WO2004100306A2 (en) Satellite with multi-zone coverage by means of beam diversion
WO2011101471A1 (en) Antenna having reflectors
WO2010043652A1 (en) Deployable structure and antennal system with membranes comprising such a structure
EP0928042A1 (en) Wide band detection means, particularly radars
FR2952759A1 (en) Reflector focal network and antenna for use in satellite to cover chosen geographical area of geostationary orbit, has sub-reflector misaligning and/or deforming beam from selected sources to produce spot near area

Legal Events

Date Code Title Description
PUAI Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012

17P Request for examination filed

Effective date: 20090618

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: A1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

GRAP Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR1

DAX Request for extension of the european patent (deleted)
GRAS Grant fee paid

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOSNIGR3

GRAA (expected) grant

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210

AK Designated contracting states

Kind code of ref document: B1

Designated state(s): AT BE BG CH CY CZ DE DK EE ES FI FR GB GR HU IE IS IT LI LT LU LV MC MT NL PL PT RO SE SI SK TR

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: EP

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FG4D

Free format text: LANGUAGE OF EP DOCUMENT: FRENCH

REF Corresponds to:

Ref document number: 602007007248

Country of ref document: DE

Date of ref document: 20100729

Kind code of ref document: P

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: NV

Representative=s name: SERVOPATENT GMBH

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: ES

Ref legal event code: FG2A

Ref document number: 2345170

Country of ref document: ES

Kind code of ref document: T3

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: T3

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: SE

Ref legal event code: TRGR

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

LTIE Lt: invalidation of european patent or patent extension

Effective date: 20100616

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: LV

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: AT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: PL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: CY

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: IE

Ref legal event code: FD4D

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: EE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: RO

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: CZ

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: SK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: PT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101018

Ref country code: IS

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101016

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Payment date: 20110110

Year of fee payment: 4

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: TR

Payment date: 20101130

Year of fee payment: 4

PLBE No opposition filed within time limit

Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261

STAA Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent

Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: DK

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

26N No opposition filed

Effective date: 20110317

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100917

BERE Be: lapsed

Owner name: THALES

Effective date: 20101231

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: DE

Ref legal event code: R097

Ref document number: 602007007248

Country of ref document: DE

Effective date: 20110316

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: MC

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101231

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101231

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20101221

Ref country code: MT

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: NL

Payment date: 20111220

Year of fee payment: 5

Ref country code: SE

Payment date: 20111213

Year of fee payment: 5

Ref country code: FI

Payment date: 20111212

Year of fee payment: 5

Ref country code: CH

Payment date: 20111213

Year of fee payment: 5

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100616

Ref country code: HU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20101217

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: NL

Ref legal event code: V1

Effective date: 20130701

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: SE

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121222

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: CH

Ref legal event code: PL

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: FI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121221

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: BG

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF FAILURE TO SUBMIT A TRANSLATION OF THE DESCRIPTION OR TO PAY THE FEE WITHIN THE PRESCRIBED TIME-LIMIT

Effective date: 20100916

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LI

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121231

Ref country code: CH

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121231

Ref country code: NL

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20130701

PG25 Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: LU

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121221

Ref country code: TR

Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES

Effective date: 20121221

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 9

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 10

REG Reference to a national code

Ref country code: FR

Ref legal event code: PLFP

Year of fee payment: 11

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: GB

Payment date: 20231116

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: IT

Payment date: 20231128

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: FR

Payment date: 20231122

Year of fee payment: 17

Ref country code: DE

Payment date: 20231114

Year of fee payment: 17

PGFP Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo]

Ref country code: ES

Payment date: 20240111

Year of fee payment: 17