Quasi-optical frequency selective surface with phase compensation structure correcting the beam distortion

Area of Science:

• Electromagnetics
• Antenna Theory
• Materials Science

Background:

• Space-borne quasi-optical feed systems require frequency selective surfaces (FSS) that satisfy stringent electrical and mechanical specifications.
• Existing FSS designs often face trade-offs between performance and structural integrity, or introduce beam aberrations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and fabricate a novel frequency selective surface (FSS) that meets both electrical and mechanical requirements for space applications.
• To address beam distortion issues in quasi-optical systems using an innovative phase compensation structure.

Main Methods:

• Design and fabrication of three prototype FSS structures.
• Incorporation of a phase compensation structure, inspired by reflect array antennas, using a short-ended circular waveguide array.
• Testing and analysis of electrical properties (insertion phase, reflection bands) and mechanical robustness.

Main Results:

• The first FSS prototype exhibited good electrical performance but failed mechanical tests.
• The second prototype improved mechanical strength but introduced reflection beam aberrations due to phase discontinuity.
• The third FSS, featuring the novel phase compensation structure, successfully met all electrical and mechanical demands.
• The phase compensation structure effectively compensated for 119 and 183 GHz reflection bands and reconfigured field distributions.

Conclusions:

• A novel FSS with a phase compensation structure has been successfully developed, meeting critical electrical and mechanical requirements for space-borne applications.
• The proposed FSS design offers enhanced functionality, potentially reducing the need for complex optical components like ellipsoidal reflectors.
• This work presents a significant advancement in FSS technology for demanding aerospace and telecommunications systems.