Embroidered microwave antennas for aerospace applications

Abstract

A conformal loadbearing antenna structure (CLAS) has been fabricated using novel embroidery techniques on aerospace composite structure. Comparisons between substrates, curing techniques and sewing patterns have been performed using a simple planar patch antenna design. Measurements showed that a ‘+’ stitching pattern is most suitable for the embroidery of patch antennas in composite materials. A conformal dual patch array was designed to take advantage of a NACA-0012 aerofoil shape. By feeding the patches separately or with a phase shift up to 180deg, it was shown that up to 52deg of beam steering can be achieved in elevation. This conformal arrangement makes the array suitable for Wi-Fi communications as well as collision avoidance radar applications.