Continuous Apertures Using Aggregate Patch Elements (APEs)

Dynetics proposes the use of Aggregatable Patch Elements (APEs) as a potential solution for synthesis of arbitrary antenna performance from a near continuum of small patch elements. This solution is based on the innovative concept of integration of element switching directly on the array surface. A large field of small patches will allow considerable latitude in synthesis of a patch array because multiples of the small patches may be aggregated to form larger patches which will serve as radiators. These larger patches may be used in ways consistent with conventional patch array design. This technology can be used over extremely broad frequency ranges, limited only by the performance of the switching devices employed in the aperture. Lattice spacing of the conventional patch array thus formed will remain proportional to the wavelength of operation, maintaining good control of grating lobes. Power requirements on the switching devices (PIN diodes or GaAs switches, for example) are low relative to both thetotal radiated power and the patch element radiated power because the incident RF power is distributed over several devices. With appropriate dual (or asymmetric) feeds this concept can support any required polarization (even dual or variable polarization).