Conformal antenna array formed on intersecting walls of a honeycomb structure and a method of making such an antenna array

摘要

A conformal antenna array 10 comprises a plurality of intersecting wall portions 12 supporting a plurality of electromagnetic radiating elements 14. The intersecting walls 12 form a honeycomb core structure with a surface arranged to conform to that of a structure into which it is to be integrated. A radome formed by a single piece of composite material is secured to, and conformal with, the conformal surface of the said honeycomb structure. One surface of the honeycomb core structure may be bonded to a multi-faceted back skin 16 and the other surface may be machined to provide a desired conformal surface contour. The back skin 16 may be linked with antenna electronics and provide printed circuit connections to the radiating elements 14. The radiating elements 14 may be dipoles formed within the intersecting walls 12. Adhesive material may be used to secure the walls 12, radome and back skin 16 together in a method involving a support jig and curing in an oven under certain heat and pressure conditions. The antenna array 10 may provide a compact, light weight structure which is also strong and can form part of a load bearing structure possibly in an aircraft or some other vehicle.