PAGE CONTENTS
Objectives
The objective of this project is to develop two ‘Ku-band waveguide lens antennae’ for satellite communication. The particular application here is satellite TV reception. There is an eventual possible application for reception of a large signal span in one antenna while the other receiving array (antenna) can be used in a variety of other applications.
The patented waveguide lens techniques allow multi-satellite reception in an angular coverage of 30°, and a satellite angular separation down to 2°. One antenna type is designed for the frequency band 10.75-12.75 GHz, which is the frequency range used for satellite TV in Europe. In North America, however, the corresponding frequency band 11.7-12.75 GHz is used. The second antenna type is designed for that band. The antenna can, however, be designed for mass production for any frequency band from 4-40 GHz.
One of the goals of this project has been to develop cost effective mass production methods in order to commercially exploit the waveguide lens technology to a mass market. The different mass market segments have been identified by a market study. In this study the demands of e.g. antenna shape and size as well as signal processing characteristics were analysed.
A production plant has been implemented and there is continuous manufacturing of the product.
Challenges
Freedom of choice. Every TV set with a set-top box can select from the complete range of channels. Switching between satellite positions and channels is done without delay.
Innovative and future applications. A pioneer invention that forms a new platform for development.
Combination of Internet and TV. Some LNB´s can be directed to Internet traffic and others to TV channels.
The position of the LNB´s avoids heat damage and receives reduced amounts of thermal noise as compared with a reflector antenna for example.
The design is lightweight, has low wind load resistance and is unaffected by ice and snow.
Plan
A summary of the total undertaking is as follows:
- Design computer. A EM-simulation software study is done and EM-simulation software implemented.
- Market study. The study is focused on the European and North American markets and it reveals the needs and requirements of multi-satellite reception.
- EPS tool 1. The design of a waveguide lens antenna for the European market operating at 10,75-12,75 GHz.
- EPS tool 2. The design of a waveguide lens antenna for the North American market operating at 11,7-12,75 GHz.
- Breadboard Testing Facility. The implementation of a smaller production plant for the manufacturing of antennas, which can be tested.
- Near- and far-field measurements. The produced antennas are analysed and tested.
Current Status
In this project, two new waveguide lens antennas have been developed. A market report, that covers the European and American markets, has been done and it reveals the need for multi satellite reception. It further outlines the requirements and differences of the two different markets which have led to conclusions about antenna size, frequency band and number of received satellite positions.
A breadboard testing facility has been implemented and the production process is running continuous, fulfilling the quality regulations, and with the two new designed antenna types as output. Quality checking procedures of produced units are developed and a projected mass-market production plant design is approved.
The antenna is called ‘Cybertenna’. It is now in the marketing phase, and has received much attention and awards for innovation, design and technique.
An EM-software study has been done in order to find a tool that can support the development of the two antennae. Two types of EM simulation software: CST Microwave Studio and Quick Wave 3D, have been used in the design phase. The fact that the waveguide lens antenna structure is very complex and large compared to wavelength, has lead to a new approach in the simulations and the formation of a research group dealing with large array simulations has been implemented.