Technology Insights AME Designs AME Antenna Array

AME Antenna Array

Sep 18, 2023

Printed Circuit Structures (PCS) | Sensors and Antennas | Flight Control | DragonFly IV | Inkjet

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Concept

This AME design has the status of concept. A first design concept is established, a complete explanation of the targeted functionality is included, and the targeted printer technology has been provided.

3D printed electronics can make assembling phased array antennas easier by using a flat, 3D form factor for radiation elements and an RF distribution motherboard. This design balances miniaturization, ease of assembly, and RF performance with impedance-controlled, shielded structures. The RF motherboard also helps with mounting active components and managing heat. Picking the right 3D printing materials and techniques is key to getting the best performance across various antenna designs and frequency ranges.

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AME 3D Flat Formfactor for Phased Array Antennas

While the present formfactors of printed electronics are restricted in height dimensions along the z-axis, they do possess the capability to generate shielded and impedance-controlled structures.

Phased Array Antenna applications are often limited by the use of high-end PCB structures with high RF-material performance (e.g. ceramics). The assembly of RF-PCBs in such cases requires special care, with time-consuming manual mountings and a large number of screws that must be positioned precisely.

One goal of this 3D printed electronics design concept is to simplify assembly by using a 3-dimensional but flat formfactor for radiation elements and an RF-distribution motherboard.

The ability to create individual impedance-controlled interfaces, which includes shielding, will help to find an improved way to balance miniaturization, easy assembly, and improved Radio Frequency performance for such antenna applications.

By using an RF motherboard, it becomes possible to assemble active components and incorporate concepts of heat dissipation.

This concept represents a model for different styles of array antennas with flexible frequency range optimization. In order to attain the desired level of performance, it is imperative to meticulously deliberate on the choice of 3D-printed materials and procedures. Optimal utilization may be achieved by employing varied materials and techniques that are most appropriate for their intended purposes.

Future Field of Application

Direct-printed coaxial wires can distribute RF-transporting signals while preserving signal integrity and power, thus avoiding connectorized interfaces.