3D Printed Discrete Dielectric Lens With Improved Matching Layers

Abstract

This paper presents a non-zoned discrete dielectric lens comprising two or three matching layers to reduce the 50–110 GHz frequency range reflections. Based on Chebyshev and binomial multi-section transformers, the designed models use matching layers at the top and bottom. In addition, the presented designs use pins instead of the conventional slots for the matching layers, thus easing the manufacturing process. The results show that the broadband realized gain obtained using the proposed design is higher for both the two- and three-layer design than the commonly used quarter-wave transformer. A Binomial lens with two matchings layers using 38 unit cells is fabricated and illuminated by an open-ended waveguide to validate the simulation results obtained using CST Microwave Studio. The fabrication process uses stereolithography additive manufacturing.