Abstract: A first subarray beamformer for a multi-beam phased array antenna (12) used in a receiving mode includes multiple phased array antenna beamforming layers. The beamforming layers include a first beamforming layer (90) that may have a first series of combiners in a first orientation. The first series of combiners combine a first set of signals to form a second set of signals. A second beamforming layer (110) may have a second series of combiners in a second orientation that are coupled to and oppose the first series of combiners. The second series of combiners combine the second set of signals to form a first combined signal. A second subarray beamformer for a multi-beam phased array antenna used in a transmitting mode that has a similar configuration as that of the first subarray beamformer, but includes dividers rather than combiners.

Abstract: A first subarray beamformer for a multi-beam phased array antenna (12) used in a receiving mode includes multiple phased array antenna beamforming layers. The beamforming layers include a first beamforming layer (90) that may have a first series of combiners in a first orientation. The first series of combiners combine a first set of signals to form a second set of signals. A second beamforming layer (110) may have a second series of combiners in a second orientation that are coupled to and oppose the first series of combiners. The second series of combiners combine the second set of signals to form a first combined signal. A second subarray beamformer for a multi-beam phased array antenna used in a transmitting mode that has a similar configuration as that of the first subarray beamformer, but includes dividers rather than combiners.

Abstract: A beam forming network having a division network for a hexagonal structure of elements, where the neighboring elements in the same column, having the same primary polarization, have three-way power division. The neighboring elements in adjacent columns, having a different primary polarization, have four-way power division. In the combining network, seven signals are combined from outputs of elements having the same polarization. Three of the signals will come from adjacent elements in the same column, and four signals will come from feeds in adjacent columns that are diagonal to the center element. The overlapping element configuration covers a large geographical area with reduced interference between neighboring elements. A waveguide implementation of the beam-forming network of the present invention is provided in which waveguides are structures so as to avoid crossovers, thereby eliminating interference and simplifying construction and assembly techniques.

Abstract: A millimeter wave multilayer phased array assembly has a multilayer board consisting of several laminated printed wiring boards (PWBs) and a frame having a waveguide input and waveguide output. The PWBs are made of a high frequency laminate material and have a pattern of metalization to perform varying electronic tasks. These tasks include electrical interconnection, RF signal transmission, DC current routing and DC signal routing.