Non-uniform dielectric beam steering antenna

Abstract

A microstrip antenna for receiving an RF signal from a satellite includes a radiation element and a ground plane disposed substantially parallel to and spaced from the radiation element. A first dielectric and a second dielectric are sandwiched between the ground plane and the radiation element, in a side-by-side relationship. The first dielectric has a first relative permittivity and the second dielectric has a second relative permittivity different from the first relative permittivity. A feed line electrically connects the antenna to an amplifier. A section of the feed line is disposed between the first and second dielectrics. The antenna produces the effect of tilting a radiation beam from a higher to a lower elevation angle to achieve a higher gain at lower elevation angles.

Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.