A tutorial on the synthesis of single shaped reflectors in C, KU, and KA bands

摘要

The technique of shaping the surface of satellite parabolic reflectors, illuminated by a single feed, in order to obtain a determined shaped contoured radiation pattern, with corresponding weight and cost savings, has become an important engineering problem. At present there are many sophisticated synthesis methods that have evolved in the last ten years, but a tutorial on the basics of the design procedure is missing in the literature. This article proposes a didactical sequence of the basic mathematical reasoning and the application of one of the most popular methods used for this purpose, clarifying several considerations which are very important but are usually omitted in textbooks or in previous technical papers on the subject, thus providing a time-saving reference tool for antenna designers who are unfamiliar with the topic. Typical surface deformation data for shaped reflectors at C, Ku, and Ka bands are given as a guideline for a set of different footprints, and a comprehensive and user-friendly program available from a web link is also provided for other geometries.