Dielectric Waveguide for Communication with High Speed Vehicles

摘要

A theoretical and experimental research program has been conducted to assess the feasibility of a wireless, non-radiating communication system based on the use of a dielectric waveguide. The dielectric waveguide is composed of a dielectric rod attached to a metallic shield. The transfer of an electromagnetic signal to and from a vehicle moving parallel to the waveguide is accomplished by means of a coupler mounted on the vehicle itself without a physical contact with the dielectric waveguide. Both the waveguide and the moving coupler theoretically are non-radiating units. Consequently, no radiation is emitted by the system and conversely it does not couple with external electromagnetic signals which propagate in the surrounding environment. The feasibility study, conducted in the X-band or 8.8 to 9.0 GHz, has shown that the concept provides a reasonably simple and efficient communication system with a moving vehicle. In terms of radiation losses and rejection of external electromagnetic signals, the performance of the waveguide is good and consequently it can be used in regions of crowded electromagnetic environment. (Author)