USA as Represented by Secretary of the Navy

Jessica L Watson

David W Brock

Dennis G Bermeo

Peter Stuart Berens

Brandon J Wiedemeier

Robbi Mangra

Lu Xu

Yong An Kho

Christopher C Obra

Linda Hau

Dave Arney

Hoin Lim

Ryan Joseph Anderson

Kemakeo K Wilson

Embodiments of the present invention are directed to a modular, lock and key, tapered slot antenna feed structure, antenna kits including same and methods of use. The invention allows for quick assembly and separation of opposed blades. The invention provides a repeatable tight tolerance feed gap during every assembly. Components of the tapered slot antenna feed structure may be additively manufactured and selectively plated.

Modular tapered slot antenna feed structure method of use and kit

A lower element ground plane apparatus for maximizing ground plane surface area in an antenna system, the apparatus involving a lower element of a bi-element antenna and an array of monopole antennas coupled with the lower element of the bi-element antenna, the lower element of the bi-element antenna operable as a ground plane for the array of monopole antennas, whereby ground plane surface area is maximized.

Lower element ground plane apparatus and methods for an antenna system

A bicone antenna and methods for manufacture therefor can include a feed portion, a top section and a bottom section that can be centered on a vertical axis. The top section and bottom sections can each have a respective conical surface, which can extend radially outward from the vertical axis at an inner portion at a constant angle &#x3b8;with respect to a horizontal antenna axis of the antenna. For both sections, the inner portion can merge into an outer portion that can have a curved surface, with the curved surface extending radially outward from the conical surface so that the curved surface has a logarithmic profile when viewed in side profile. The above structure can allow for a multi-directional antenna with a minimum of moving parts, which can be easily manufactured, including by additive manufacturing techniques.

Bicone antenna with logarithmically extending conical surfaces

Growing community of inventors

Santee, CA, United States of America

Jessica L Watson