Dual-Band Shared-Aperture Slot Array Design Concept

Abstract

A shared-aperture design concept is presented for a dual-band array where the ratio of the frequencies is flexible. At the lower frequency, the array is dual-polarized and the elements are cavity-backed crossed slots. The height of the cavity is reduced by adopting an “inverted T” configuration. For the higher frequency, single-polarized slot subarrays are fitted between the crossed slots, and use ridged waveguide for high aperture efficiency. The all-metal design is inherently robust and its sandwich-like structure suits different fabrication techniques. The applications for this kind of antenna include both terrestrial and space-borne missions, particularly synthetic aperture arrays.