Low Cross-Polarization Decade-Bandwidth Ultra-Wideband Antenna Element + Array
Marinos Vouvakis, Ph.D.
Electronically scanned arrays with ultra-wideband (ESA-UWBs) performance are desirable for applications such as multi-functional systems, high-throughput or low-power communications, high-resolution and clutter resilient radar/sensing, and electromagnetic warfare systems. For these applications, Vivaldi arrays are popular for their excellent impedance performance, but do suffer from unintended polarization, which leads to loss of service or reduction of throughput. To correct for these problems, one can add additional feeding circuitry; however, that will add to complexity and cost and reduce bandwidth capability. This invention improves upon prior art Vivaldi designs, creating an antenna that has: (1) large instantaneous bandwidths; (2) excellent impedance matching; (3) good polarization isolation. Dr. Vouvakis' antenna is also easier to manufacture because the body is made up of smaller disconnected components that are easier to solder and notch than a single long flair Vivaldi of the prior art. Finally, because the design is based on Vivaldi, this antenna invention will be backwards compatible with legacy wideband phased array platforms.
 • Large bandwidth in excess of one decade • Low cross polarization in the entire θ<60° scan volume, including diagonal planes • Design allows for cheaper, more reproducible manufacturing through reduced soldering and number of metallic vias
• High-throughput or low-power communications • High-resolution and clutter resilient radar/sensing • Electromagnetic warfare systems
Marinos Vouvakis (S'99–M'05) received the Diploma degree in electrical engineering, from Democritus University of Thrace (DUTH), Xanthi, Greece, in 1999, and the M.S. degree from Arizona State University (ASU), Tempe, in 2002 and the Ph.D. degree from The Ohio State University (OSU), Columbus, in 2005, both in electrical and computer engineering.Currently he is an Associate Professor with the Center for Advanced Sensor and Communication Antennas, Electrical and Computer Engineering Department, University of Massachusetts at Amherst. His research interests are in the area of computational electromagnetics with emphasis on domain decomposition, fast finite element and integral equation methods, hybrid methods, model order reduction and unstructured meshing for electromagnetic radiation and scattering applications. His interests extend to the design and manufacturing of ultrawideband phased array systems.
Available for Licensing and/or Sponsored Research
UMA 15-021
Patent Pending
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