Abstract: Optimizations are provided in the design and fabrication of a parabolic antenna reflector. In particular, a parabolic antenna reflector comprises an inner reflective face being formed in a parabolic shape and a first outer circumferential portion. The parabolic antenna also includes an outer face being formed in a different parabolic shape and a second circumferential portion. The first outer circumferential portion is coupled to the second outer circumferential portion to form an inner body between the inner reflective face and the outer face. This inner body includes a monopulse comparator waveguide. As a result, the monopulse comparator waveguide is embedded between the inner reflective face and the outer face. In some instances, this waveguide includes one or more bends. Additionally, in some instances, the parabolic antenna reflector is fabricated using additive manufacturing techniques such that the parabolic antenna reflector is a single printed unit.

Abstract: One embodiment disclosed herein is related to a device for pointing a radiating element. The device includes an aligned radiating surface; a hinge that is circumferentially mounted to a rear side of the aligned radiating surface, the hinge configured to change azimuth of the aligned radiating surface; and a Tubular Universal joint (TU-joint) having one end coupled to a rear side of the aligned radiating surface and a second end coupled to a base, the TU-joint being configured to change an elevation of the aligned radiating surface. Another embodiment is related to a Tubular Universal-joint (TU-joint). In the embodiment, the TU-joint includes a hollow tube having a first end and a second end; a plurality of slits along the surface of the tube; and a plurality of members between the plurality of slits, each of the plurality of members configured to bear a portion of a load of the TU-joint, wherein the TU-joint is configured to be axially and torsionally stiff while being bendable.