Abstract: A transformer for connection between a generator and a load may be formed by connecting n transmission lines together, in series at one end and in parallel at the other end. The transmission lines are configured to each have a characteristic impedance of {square root over (RG+L |ZL+L (f0+L |)}, where f0 is the frequency at which each transmission line is one quarter of a wavelength long (quarter-wavelength frequency), |ZL(f0)| is the magnitude of the load impedance at the quarter-wavelength frequency, and RG is the generator resistance. The transformer exhibits a frequency-dependent impedance transformation ratio, allowing a more efficient impedance match of a generator to a load having a frequency-dependent impedance, such as an antenna.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 22, 1999
Date of Patent:
January 8, 2002
Assignee:
TDK RF Solutions, Inc.
Inventors:
James Stuart McLean, Gentry Elizabeth Crook
Abstract: An antenna structure may be formed by arranging a current-restricting structure upon a conductive surface. The current-restricting structure may be formed from a ferrite material, and may be in forms including a belt, tiles, or a patterned deposited layer. The conductive surface may be associated with a vehicle or structure. The current-restricting structure alters the paths taken by current on or beneath the conductive surface when a voltage is applied between portions of the surface.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
September 11, 1999
Date of Patent:
December 11, 2001
Assignee:
TDK RF Solutions, Inc.
Inventors:
James Stuart McLean, Gentry Elizabeth Crook
Abstract: A broadband antenna incorporating both electric and magnetic dipole radiators includes a tapered feed, such as a bow-tie feed, having a central feedpoint and first and second outer regions displaced from the central feedpoint. One or more conducting loop elements are connected between the outer regions of the tapered feed. Top loading capacitive elements extending from each of the outer regions may also be provided.
Type:
Grant
Filed:
October 26, 1999
Date of Patent:
December 11, 2001
Assignee:
TDK RF Solutions Inc.
Inventors:
James Stuart McLean, Gentry Elizabeth Crook
Abstract: A tapered, inverted-L bow-tie antenna is disclosed which includes a bow-tie antenna component connected to a central feed and having top-loading elements connected to each bow-tie half opposite the central feed. According to the invention, a series inductance is introduced between the feed and the antenna tips, and preferably at the transition between the bow-tie halves and the top-loading elements. In a preferred embodiment, the inductive loading is introduced by a buttonhook or hairpin curve in the antenna region between the bow-tie portion and the tapered portion. The added inductance reduces the capacitive reactance. The low impedance partway on stem also increases current flow, and thus the antenna's performance. The input impedance is also increased, making it easier to match the antenna to a driving hardware. The antenna can be used by itself or in combination with a log periodic dipole array.