Dual-band radiating element and modular antenna array

A dual band radiating element configured for removable installation in a radiating array, the dual band radiating element comprising:

• a first radiating patch and a second radiating patch;
• a first dielectric layer interposing the first radiating patch and the second radiating patch, the first dielectric layer selected for compatibility with the first radiating patch;
• a second dielectric layer interposing the second radiating patch and a single ground plane, the second dielectric layer selected for compatibility with the second radiating patch, the first and second dielectric layers being separate;
• a single base plate, comprising:
• a top surface adjacent to the ground plane;
• and
• a bottom surface having a first connector and a second connector disposed thereon without intervening dielectric substrate between the bottom surface and the first and second connectors,
• wherein the connectors are disposed on the base plate at locations corresponding to an array position of the dual band radiating element within the radiating array;
• a first feed pin for relaying radio frequency signals from the first connector to the second radiating patch via a first port in the second dielectric layer;
• a second feed pin for relaying radio frequency signals from the second connector to the first radiation patch via a second port in the second dielectric layer;
• a single feed network for routing the first feed pin and the second feed pin to the first port and the second port, respectively, wherein the top surface of the base plate and the ground plane enclose the single feed network;
• and
• at least one aperture configured to receive a mechanical fastener to removably attach the dual band radiating element to the radiating array at the array position.