Novel, Wideband Highly Directional Compact UHF Antenna Array for Multifunctional Submarine Communications

"There is a great need for multifunctional communication arraysthat are small and fit within a specified submarine enclosure.Concurrent low and high frequency functionality presents us withadditional challenges. We propose herein the development of abroadband multifunctional array for operation when mounted on acylindrical surface. The array employs unique miniaturebroadband elements configured for operation in a cylindricalarray environment. The Phase I study demonstrated the concept'ssuitability for this application. During the Phase II effort, wewill develop complete array design and carry out a hardwaredemonstration of the integrated package.BENEFITS: Compact and affordable broadband conformal antennas are needed for a variety of communications applications. The proposed antenna structure(s) will have widespread uses in mobile communications includingautomobiles, civil and general aviation, GPS, PCS, Cellular, LAN, etc. that require multi-functionality and broad bandwidths using a single aperture."