Abstract: Provided is an antenna system for tracking a satellite which includes a fixed body and a rotating body. The antenna system includes a transmitting/receiving unit having a transmitting channel and a receiving channel for signal power, a driving unit for enabling mechanical motion of the rotating body for satellite tracking, and a control unit for monitoring and controlling the operation of the driving unit. Accordingly, the various kinds of the components of the antenna system mounted and operated on the movable body can be minimized and the output of the transmitted signal required in the antenna system can be simply replaced, thereby simplifying the configuration of the system and reducing the production cost of the system. In addition, the STR having the tracking signal processing function in the digital mode as well as the general analog mode is mounted on the antenna system, thereby improving accuracy of satellite tracking.

Abstract: A rotationally-stabilizing tracking antenna system suitable for mounting on a moving structure includes a three-axis pedestal for supporting an antenna about a first azimuth axis, a second cross-level axis, and a third elevation axis, a three-axis drive assembly for rotating a vertical support assembly relative to a base assembly about the first azimuth axis, a cross-level driver for pivoting a cross-level frame assembly relative to the vertical support assembly about the second cross-level axis, and an elevation driver for pivoting an elevation frame assembly relative to the cross-level frame assembly about the third elevation axis, a motion platform assembly affixed to and movable with the elevation frame assembly, three orthogonally mounted angular rate sensors disposed on the motion platform assembly for sensing motion about predetermined X, Y and Z axis of the elevation frame assembly, a three-axis gravity accelerometer mounted on the motion platform assembly and configured to determine a.

Abstract: Method for obtaining a predetermined position for a satellite antenna, whereby a controller (9) is made to transfer information to a velocity controller (3), in turn being made to transfer information to a current regulator (4), being made to transfer current to a motor which is intended for setting the desired position of the satellite antenna. The electrical motor (5) is made to receive current from the current regulator so that the electrical motor is made to turn a predetermined angle during a predetermined time interval. An angle sensor (6) is positioned on the satellite antenna and is made to read an absolute angle or an angular displacement of the satellite antenna, and the angle sensor is connected to the controller so as to create a feedback loop. An automatic control system is also disclosed.

Abstract: An antenna array employing a combined azimuth and elevation beam angle adjustment electromechanical system is disclosed. The system employs a dual purpose remotely controllable actuator. The actuator is used to adjust azimuth angle of the antenna array and radiation beam tilt of the same. An antenna array employing a combined azimuth, beamwidth and elevation beam angle adjustment electromechanical system is also disclosed.

Abstract: According to the invention, a system for positioning an antenna is disclosed. The system may include an antenna, a first substantially circular track, a base, and a first plurality of rollers. The first substantially circular track may be coupled with the antenna. Each of the first plurality of rollers may be coupled with the base. Each of the first plurality of rollers may be in contact with the first substantially circular track. Each of the first plurality of rollers may rotate when the first substantially circular track rotates.

Abstract: A radar antenna system comprises a base. A center support is coupled to the base on a first end. A radar array is pivotally coupled to a second end of the center support. At least two actuators are provided for pivoting the radar array about the center support, altering its azimuth position.

Abstract: For two-dimensional imaging of scenes through continuous passive or active microwave scanning, use is made of a fully mechanized directional antenna array comprising a main reflector (1), a primary radiator array (3) and a subreflector (2) having a small size in comparison to the main reflector and being tilted relative to the optical axis (7) of the directional antenna array. First drive means (8) are operative to rotate the subreflector (2) about the optical axis (7), and second drive means (17,18) are operative to move the total directional antenna array in a direction approximately vertical to the optical axis (7). The moving speed of the subreflector (2) is very high in comparison to that of the total directional antenna array.

Abstract: An antenna for communicating with mobile devices in a land-based cellular communication system via an antenna beam having a width, azimuth angle and downtilt angle. The antenna includes: a two dimensional array of radiating elements (31-34); and a feed network (35-39) from a feed line to the radiating elements. The feed network includes: downtilt phase shifting means (35,36) for varying the phase of signals supplied to or received from the radiating elements so as to vary the downtilt angle of the antenna beam; azimuth phase shifting (38,39) means for varying the phase of signals supplied to or received from the radiating elements so as to vary the azimuth angle of the antenna beam; and beam width adjustment means (37) for varying the power or phase of signals supplied to or received from the radiating elements so as to vary the width of the antenna beam.

Abstract: A rotatable antenna mount assembly for coupling an antenna reflector to a support structure. The antenna mount including a rotatable connection provided with a generally planar outer surface; the rotatable connection coupled directly to the antenna reflector. An antenna mount having a reflector connection plane; the antenna mount coupled to the support structure. The rotatable connection coupled to the antenna mount, the outer surface parallel to the reflector connection plane, the rotatable connection, and thereby the antenna reflector rotatable about a rotation axis normal to the reflector connection plane.

Abstract: Provided is a antenna system for tracking a mobile satellite and a movable carrier having the same for mechanically adjusting the orientation of an antenna at the azimuth angle and the elevation angle and correcting the phase error of a receiving signal while adjusting the elevation angle of the antenna at the same time. The antenna system for tracking a mobile satellite includes: a substrate; a rotating plate rotatably disposed on the substrate; one or more antennas disposed at the rotating plate; an azimuth angle adjusting unit for mechanically adjusting an azimuth angle of the antenna; and an elevation angle adjusting unit for mechanically adjusting an elevation angle of the antenna.

Abstract: The device permits remote actuation on the slope angle of an antenna consisting of two units, one electric and one mechanical, physically separated and connected forming a single arrangement, in which each of the units is provided with its own casing. The mechanical unit supports an electromotor coil positioning sensors, a driving gear, and a gear wheel engaged with the pinion. The electronic unit is provided with supply and communication connection terminals, an electronic circuit, a sensor for reading initial reference positioning and a casing. Both are connected by means of a cable and connector. Due to the independent manner in which the mechanical and electrical units are arranged, it is possible to obtain a watertight electronic unit protected from damp, independent replacement in a simple manner of both units, and the visualization of the indicator rod's position and movement.

Abstract: A unitized device and method to optimize directional antenna alignment for long-distance communications using the low-cost IEEE 802.11 (and related) compatible RF-chipsets (originally designed for short range Wireless-LAN and Wireless-PAN networks). The device combines these chipsets, along with a microprocessor, software, electronics to drive a directional antenna, and the motors and gearing necessary to physically move a directional antenna, into a unitized low weight, and low cost assembly designed to enable reliable digital radio links of many miles or more to be established with minimal costs, time, and installer skill. In one embodiment, the software methods incorporated into the software of this unitized device can include methods necessary to automatically or semi-automatically configure and align the directional antenna to one or more distant target sources. Various mechanical designs, as well as various software and electronics methods, are also disclosed.

Abstract: A lift actuator for supporting a radar antenna array and for selectively moving the antenna array between a retracted position and an erected operational position, said actuator includes a first linear induction driver movable along a first member and a second linear induction driver movable along a second member. The first and second members each have a distal and a proximal ends. The second member is pivotably connected at said proximal end to the first driver. A third rigid member is connected to the second driver. The third member has a distal end adapted to pivotably connect to a radar antenna array. The radar antenna array is constrained in the direction of the first member.

Abstract: A pedestal for tracking antenna includes a horizontal isolation assembly dimensioned and configured to isolate the support plate from horizontal vibration and shock of the base ring, a hub assembly including a support mounted on the horizontal isolation assembly rotatably supporting a rotating frame about a first azimuth axis, a vertical isolation assembly including an upright frame and a cross-level axis support slidably interconnected with a linear bearing assembly, the linear bearing assembly having a profiled rail slidably received within a complementary shaped bearing block, wherein the profiled rail can not twist axially relative to the bearing block, a cross-level frame pivotally mounted on the cross-level axis support about a second cross-level axis, and/or an elevation frame assembly supporting the tracking antenna and pivotally mounted on the cross-level frame about a third elevation axis.

Abstract: According to the invention, a system for adjusting the polarity of an antenna is disclosed. The system may include a spherical structure, at least one arm, and a coupling apparatus. The spherical structure may be at least partially spherical in shape about a central point and may include a first plurality of magnets. The at least one arm may be in proximity to the spherical structure, may include a second plurality of magnets, and may be coupled with the antenna. The coupling apparatus may be fixedly coupled with the antenna and rotatably coupled with the at least one arm. The coupling apparatus may include a third plurality of magnets, where at least a portion of the magnets may be configured to be selectively activated to rotate the coupling apparatus relative to the at least one arm.

Abstract: The invention relates to a radar transmission and reception device comprising a movable antenna (1). The invention is particularly useful in aircraft-borne radars making it possible to obtain information on meteorology. The antenna (1) can be move in rotation about two substantially concurrent axes (2, 3). The antenna (1) is intended to transmit and/or to receive an electromagnetic wave. The device furthermore comprises an electronic module (4) linked to the antenna (1) by a waveguide, the electronic module (4) ensuring the processing of the electromagnetic wave received and/or the generation of the electromagnetic wave transmitted. The electronic module (4) is secured to the antenna (1).

Abstract: Provided are a pedestal apparatus and a satellite-tracking antenna having the same. The pedestal apparatus includes: a fixing unit fixed at a moving object; a connecter for forming a first rotating axis vertically to the fixing unit; a first rotation supporter having a bottom fixed at the fixing unit and a Y-shaped top for rotating the tracking antenna around the first rotating axis; a second connecter connected to ends of the Y-shaped top for forming a second rotating axis; a second rotation supporter having both ends connected to the both ends of the second connecter for rotating the tracking antenna around the second rotating axis; a third connecter for forming a third rotating axis at a center of the second rotation supporter; and a supporter connected to the third connecter in a predetermined shape for supporting the tracking antenna, wherein the first, second and third rotating axes are not crossed one another.

Abstract: An alignment mechanism for aligning an antenna to a satellite configuration is disclosed. An apparatus in accordance with the present invention comprises an antenna for receiving the satellite signals, a mast, for mounting the antenna to a desired location, and an alignment mechanism, coupled between the antenna and the mast, comprising an azimuth mechanism having a predetermined pre-load for adjusting the azimuth position of the antenna, and an elevation mechanism, coupled to the azimuth mechanism, for adjusting the elevation of the antenna, wherein the azimuth mechanism has a radius larger than a radius of the mast, and the azimuth mechanism further comprises a fine adjustment mechanism.

Abstract: The positioning device (2) can position or orient a spherical object (3). This spherical object is placed and held by gravity on three points of support (P, P?, P?) of the positioning device (2). The positioning device (2) includes means for driving the object in rotation. The centre of gravity of said object in any position or orientation is within the triangle formed by the three points of support. The drive means include a drive member (20, 21, 22) whose contact with the external surface of the object or spherical element forms one of the support points (P) of the positioning device. The drive member includes a drive wheel, which comes into contact with the external surface of the spherical object to drive said object in rotation. The rotating axle of the wheel is mounted at the end of a support (22), which can rotate along another axle passing through the point of contact (P) of the wheel on the external surface of the spherical object and the centre of the object.

Abstract: A two-way terrestrial antenna, employing electrical down tilt and azimuth beam adjustment capability is disclosed. Such antenna configuration allows for a variable antenna coverage footprint within designated coverage sector. To compensate for installation support structure variations the two-way antenna employs a positional sensor that can provide feedback to BTS or automatically compensate azimuth and tilt beam angles so as to provide uniform sector coverage. In particular by monitoring tri-vector gravitational inclinometer and earth magnetic field sensors, and determining correction factors for antenna tilt and azimuth beam adjustments, uniform or compensated sector coverage is provided.

Abstract: A method for positioning a dielectric dome covered satellite dish adapted to be connected to a satellite receiver, by inputting an elevation command into a control console corresponding to a geographic location of the satellite dish and then depressing a single key on the control console to activate an azimuth drive system on the satellite dish. The operator depresses any key on the console to stop azimuth rotation of the satellite dish upon viewing a satellite signal. The satellite signal is fine tuned by appropriately depressing the right arrow key, a left arrow key, an up arrow key, or a down arrow key to effect pointing of the satellite dish.

Abstract: An antenna operable to transmit or receive radio frequency signals at a specified frequency, the antenna comprising a first printed circuit board comprising a first loop of conductive material having a capacitance and an inductance, the capacitance and the inductance forming a circuit being resonant at the specified frequency; and a second printed circuit board comprising a second loop of conductive material having two ends adapted to be electrically coupled to an electronic circuit, the second loop being substantially only magnetically coupled to the first loop and electrically insulated from the first loop; the antenna for use with a device for controlling the power delivered to an electrical load, further wherein the first loop of the conductive material comprises a break and the capacitance includes a capacitor bridging the break; wherein the first printed circuit board is disposed in a first plane, and the first loop is disposed in the plane perpendicular to the first plane whereby electrical current flo

Abstract: An antenna having an extended operation frequency bandwidth that includes: a feed, and a plurality of radiators which are connected to the feed to receive current and divided at the feed. Accordingly, the RFID radio signals and the mobile communication radio signals can be transmitted and received via the single antenna because the frequency bandwidth is expanded. Therefore, the efficiency of the antenna can be improved and the mobile communication terminal can be miniaturized. Furthermore, since the antenna obtains the increased gain, the communication quality of the antenna can be enhanced and the power consumption can be reduced.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a method for satellite tracking by use of an antenna assembly having a master antenna for receiving and transmitting signals to and from a master antenna satellite in a first frequency band, and a slave antenna for receiving signals from a slave antenna satellite in a second satellite band, where the master and slave antennas have physical bore-sight axes which can be arranged at different directions in relation to each other. The method of the invention includes a master antenna search routine and a slave antenna search routine. The master antenna search routine comprises the steps of changing or switching a direction of reception of the master antenna, monitoring, during the changing or switching of direction of reception of the master antenna.

Abstract: The present invention relates to an artificial satellite tracking antenna installed in moving objects, such as vehicles, ships, trains, or the like, and automatically tracking position of the satellite such that viewers may conveniently watch satellite broadcasting when in motion without adjusting the antenna.

Abstract: A self-stabilizing antenna is pivotable about an axis of elevation, a cross-level axis and an azimuth axis. The antenna comprises an antenna member (1) for transfer of signals between said antenna member and a satellite, and a frame member (6) on which the antenna member (1) is mounted for mounting thereof on said movable support. The frame member (6) includes mounting members (7, 8 and 9) permitting pivotal movement of the antenna member about said axes. The antenna further comprises driving units (12, 14) for pivotal movement of the antenna member (1) about said axes, electronic units (21, 22) for sensing and controlling the pivotal movements of the antenna member (1) and for the transfer of signals between the antenna member and a satellite, a signal transformer unit (5), a signal amplifier unit (23), a signal transfer unit (30) and a gyroscope unit (24).

Abstract: Provided is a antenna system for tracking a mobile satellite and a movable carrier having the same for mechanically adjusting the orientation of an antenna at the azimuth angle and the elevation angle and correcting the phase error of a receiving signal while adjusting the elevation angle of the antenna at the same time. The antenna system for tracking a mobile satellite includes: a substrate; a rotating plate rotatably disposed on the substrate; one or more antennas disposed at the rotating plate; an azimuth angle adjusting unit for mechanically adjusting an azimuth angle of the antenna; and an elevation angle adjusting unit for mechanically adjusting an elevation angle of the antenna.

Abstract: An antenna system includes a base, a turntable rotatably mounted on the base, and an elevation assembly carried on the turntable. An antenna is carried by the elevation assembly. The turntable has an antenna relief opening therein to permit the elevation assembly to position a lower portion of the antenna therein. The antenna system may further include an RF absorbing shroud carried by the turntable and that has an antenna receiving recess to receive the antenna therein. The antenna receiving recess may have lower portions extending into the antenna relief opening of the turntable.

Abstract: Provided are a pedestal apparatus and a satellite-tracking antenna having the same. The pedestal apparatus includes: a fixing unit fixed at a moving object; a connecter for forming a first rotating axis vertically to the fixing unit; a first rotation supporter having a bottom fixed at the fixing unit and a Y-shaped top for rotating the tracking antenna around the first rotating axis; a second connecter connected to ends of the Y-shaped top for forming a second rotating axis; a second rotation supporter having both ends connected to the both ends of the second connecter for rotating the tracking antenna around the second rotating axis; a third connecter for forming a third rotating axis at a center of the second rotation supporter; and a supporter connected to the third connecter in a predetermined shape for supporting the tracking antenna, wherein the first, second and third rotating axes are not crossed one another.

Abstract: Antenna assembly for satellite tracking system that includes a plurality of antenna arrangements, each having one or more ports, and all ports connected through transmission lines in a combining/splitting circuit. The antenna arrangements form a spatial element array able to track a satellite in an elevation plane by mechanically dynamically rotating the antenna arrangements about transverse axes giving rise to generation of respective elevation angles and dynamically changing the respective distances between the axes whilst maintaining a predefined relationship between said distances and the respective elevation angles. The combining/splitting circuit provides phasing and signal delay in order to maintain pre configured radiating parameters. The arrangements can be mounted on a rotating platform to provide azimuth tracking. The system provides dynamic tracking of satellite signals and can be used for satellite communications on moving vehicles.

Abstract: A signal conditioning module provides a polarimeter capability in a photometric system. The module may include multiple variable delay polarization modulators. Each modulator may include an input port, and a first arm formed to include a first reflector and first rooftop mirror arranged in opposed relationship. The first reflector may direct an input radiation signal to the first rooftop mirror. Each modulator also may include an output port and a second arm formed to include a second reflector and second rooftop mirror arranged in opposed relationship. The second reflector can guide a signal from the second rooftop mirror towards the output port to provide an output radiation signal. A beamsplitting grid may be placed between the first reflector and the first rooftop mirror, and also between the second reflector and the second rooftop mirror. A translation apparatus can provide adjustment relative to optical path length vis-à-vis the first arm, the second arm and the grid.

Abstract: A signal conditioning module provides a polarimeter capability in a photometric system. The module may include multiple variable delay polarization modulators. Each modulator may include an input port, and a first arm formed to include a first reflector and first rooftop mirror arranged in opposed relationship. The first reflector may direct an input radiation signal to the first rooftop mirror. Each modulator also may include an output port and a second arm formed to include a second reflector and second rooftop mirror arranged in opposed relationship. The second reflector can guide a signal from the second rooftop mirror towards the output port to provide an output radiation signal. A beamsplitting grid may be placed between the first reflector and the first rooftop mirror, and also between the second reflector and the second rooftop mirror. A translation apparatus can provide adjustment relative to optical path length vis-à-vis the first arm, the second arm and the grid.

Abstract: A method for positioning a dielectric dome covered satellite dish adapted to be connected to a satellite receiver, by inputting an elevation command into a control console corresponding to a geographic location of the satellite dish and then depressing a single key on the control console to activate an azimuth drive system on the satellite dish. The operator depresses any key on the console to stop azimuth rotation of the satellite dish upon viewing a satellite signal. The satellite signal is fine tuned by appropriately depressing the right arrow key, a left arrow key, an up arrow key, or a down arrow key to effect pointing of the satellite dish.

Abstract: Antenna assembly for satellite tracking system that includes a plurality of antenna arrangements, each having one or more ports, and all ports connected through transmission lines in a combining/splitting circuit. The antenna arrangements form a spatial element array able to track a satellite in an elevation plane by mechanically dynamically rotating the antenna arrangements about transverse axes giving rise to generation of respective elevation angles and dynamically changing the respective distances between the axes whilst maintaining a predefined relationship between said distances and the respective elevation angles. The combining/splitting circuit provides phasing and signal delay in order to maintain pre configured radiating parameters. The arrangements can be mounted on a rotating platform to provide azimuth tracking. The system provides dynamic tracking of satellite signals and can be used for satellite communications on moving vehicles.

Abstract: Mobile antenna system comprising rotary part by azimuth, which is an electronically steered in elevation phase array antenna, comprising: plurality of (multi)layered structures, placed at certain levels, said structures include microstrip antenna elements (12), feeding lines (20), which properly combined and guide the electromagnetic energy, forming the necessary phase and amplitude distribution over the antenna elements, a plurality of electronic modules (28) providing amplification, phase change, frequency conversion and steering of the received signal, power supply and control circuits for the same electronic modules; a plurality of vertical transitions (13), providing the passing of the electromagnetic energy between the layered structures from different levels; frequency converting device and rotary joint (18), passing the received signal, the power supply and control circuits to the static part; sensors detecting the spatial movement of the system, and power supply and control units; static part, compri

Abstract: A multi-band antenna of compact size includes a conductor of uniform cross-section folded to form the antenna with a connection portion, a low-frequency first radiation portion, and a high-frequency second radiation portion. The connection portion has a feeding point for signal feeding. The first and second radiation portions connect to two ends of the connection portion. The first radiation portion is folded along two different planes to form three main sections. The second radiation portion is folded along a plane to form two sections. A terminal section of the first radiation portion and a terminal section of the second radiation portion are parallel, such that radiation of these two sections is coupled to enhance radiation characteristics of the antenna. Also, the folded structure helps to achieve compact size of the antenna.

Abstract: A directional support structure for use with solar panels, flat satellite antennas, and the like items that are directed toward a point in space. The support structure includes a mounting plate with an extension tube extending outwardly therefrom, pivotally secured to a mounting bracket permitting rotational azimuth alignment of the mounting plate. At least one locking turnbuckle is attached between the extension tube and the mounting bracket to provide locking and vertical adjustable alignment of the mounting plate. The base member includes an attached first flange positioned along an upper end of the base member, an attached flaring positioned on the lower end of the mounting bracket, and an unattached second flange positioned over the flaring, securable to the first flange with fasteners.

Abstract: A collapsible tripod mount for a portable dish antenna assembly. The assembly includes a dish member and a post member extending downwardly from it. The tripod includes three legs selectively lockable in an open position to support the dish antenna assembly and a collapsed or closed position with the dish antenna assembly removed. The locking arrangement for both the open and collapsed positions of the tripod includes a plate with first and second sets of holes. Each set of holes selectively receives end portions of the tripod legs. The tripod further includes an adjustable azimuth arrangement mounted on one tripod leg and supporting the post and dish members thereon.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for directing an antenna mounted in a restricted radome on an aircraft. The method can include the operation of determining whether the antenna is directed in a keyhole. A further operation can involve controlling the antenna using an elevation gimbal and an azimuth gimbal when it is determined the antenna is directed outside the keyhole. Another operation can include directing the antenna using an elevation, azimuth, and cross elevation gimbal when it is determined the antenna is pointing in the keyhole.

Abstract: A method for positioning a dielectric dome covered satellite dish adapted to be connected to a satellite receiver, by inputting an elevation command into a control console corresponding to a geographic location of the satellite dish and then depressing a single key on the control console to activate an azimuth drive system on the satellite dish. The operator depresses any key on the console to stop azimuth rotation of the satellite dish upon viewing a satellite signal. The satellite signal is fine tuned by appropriately depressing the right arrow key, a left arrow key, an up arrow key, or a down arrow key to effect pointing of the satellite dish.

Abstract: A three-axis antenna positioner has an X-Y over azimuth configuration, and includes an azimuth drive assembly, an X-axis drive assembly, and a Y-axis drive assembly. Each drive assembly is independently operable. The azimuth drive assembly imparts 540° azimuthal rotational motion to an antenna about an azimuth axis. The X-axis drive assembly rotates the antenna about a horizontal X-axis at elevation angles between ?90° and +90°. The Y-axis drive assembly rotates the antenna about a Y-axis at elevation complement angles between ?2° and +105°. The azimuth axis, the X-axis, and the Y-axis all intersect at a common intersection point, and are mutually orthogonal. A controller operates each drive assembly so as to minimize antenna tracking velocity and acceleration. Each drive assembly may include dual drives, and may be operated in a bias drive mode to substantially eliminate backlash.

Abstract: A controller is configured to operate an antenna positioner, which positions an antenna to track a moving object during a pass, in dual operational modes. The controller determines a maximum expected elevation angle during the pass. The controller de-activates the azimuth drive assembly and activates the x-axis drive assembly and the y-axis drive assembly, if the maximum expected elevation angle is greater than or equal to a predetermined angle. The controller de-activates the x-axis drive assembly, and activates the azimuth drive assembly and the y-axis drive assembly, if the maximum expected elevation angle is less than the predetermined angle.

Abstract: A electrical structure and associated method for collimating a wireless signal between a RFID transceiver and a RFID tag. The electrical structure comprises a RFID tag and an enclosure structure. The enclosure structure comprises a radio frequency opaque material. The RFID tag is located within the enclosure structure. The enclosure structure is adapted to collimate, a first radio frequency signal from the RFID transceiver to the RFID tag.

Abstract: An apparatus for mounting and adjusting a satellite antenna in the azimuth and elevational planes. The present invention provides a base having a longitudinal axis adaptable to adjustably receive a mounting pole. A rotational mount is rotatably connected to the base and has a longitudinal axis extending at an acute angle relative to the longitudinal axis of the base. A satellite antenna support is adaptable to receive a satellite antenna, and the satellite antenna support is adjustably coupled to the rotational mount for adjustment about a rotational axis wherein the rotational axis is substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal axis of the rotational mount. A first adjustment mechanism is coupled to the base and the rotational mount for providing fine azimuth adjustment of the satellite antenna. A second adjustment mechanism is coupled to the rotational mount and the satellite antenna support for \providing fine elevational adjustment of the satellite antenna.

Abstract: A phased array antenna system accommodating onto a platform for tracking a target moving relatively to the platform, the antenna system comprising a first planar active subsystem operable for receiving/transmitting an RF signal of a certain linear polarization direction and for selectively performing electronic scanning; a second, roll subsystem coupled to the active subsystem and operable for rotational movement of the active subsystem about a first axis perpendicular to a plane defined by the planar active subsystem; a third, elevation subsystem coupled to the second, roll subsystem and to a fourth azimuth subsystem, the azimuth subsystem defining a central axis of the antenna system and being operable for providing rotational movement of the first planar subsystem about the central axis, the elevation subsystem being configured to provide a certain angular orientation between the plane defined by the active subsystem and a plane defined by the azimuth subsystem, thereby allowing positioning the first plana

Abstract: An antenna system may include a base having an opening therein, and a swing arm having a concave elongate shape and opposing ends pivotally connected to the base to permit a swinging motion of the swing arm within the opening in the base. A swing arm positioner may be connected between the swing arm and the base. The antenna system may also include an antenna carriage movable along the swing arm. An antenna carriage positioner may be connected between the antenna carriage and the swing arm. A positioning controller may be connected to the swing arm positioner and the antenna carriage positioner, and an antenna may be connected to the antenna carriage.

Abstract: A method is disclosed for directing an antenna mounted in a restricted radome on an aircraft. The method can include the operation of determining whether the antenna is directed in a keyhole. A further operation can involve controlling the antenna using an elevation gimbal and an azimuth gimbal when it is determined the antenna is directed outside the keyhole. Another operation can include directing the antenna using an elevation, azimuth, and cross elevation gimbal when it is determined the antenna is pointing in the keyhole.

Abstract: An apparatus and method for mounting a rotatable reflector antenna system on an outer surface of an aircraft which minimizes a swept arc of a main reflector. This allows the effective frontal area of the main reflector to be reduced such that a radome with a smaller frontal area can be employed to cover the antenna system. The main reflector is rotated about an azimuth axis which is disposed forward of an axial center (i.e., vertex) of the main reflector. In one embodiment the azimuth axis is located in a plane extending between the outermost lateral edges of the main reflector, which define the aperture of the antenna. In another embodiment the azimuth axis is located forward of the outermost lateral edges of the main reflector. In further embodiments the azimuth axis of rotation is located in between a subreflector and a feed horn of the antenna, or in between the vertex of the main reflector and the subreflector.

Abstract: An antenna system to enable satellite communication with a moving vehicle, such as an aircraft, includes an array formed by a group of subarrays. The array is positioned within a cavity and arranged to be mechanically tilted about a horizontal axis-of-rotation to provide elevation scanning of an antenna beam pattern (e.g., 20 to 90 degree elevation scan). The array, with the cavity, is mechanically rotated to provide azimuth scanning of the beam pattern (e.g., 360 degree azimuth scan). Each subarray may be a square flat-plate array having slot-type radiating elements (e.g., simple or crossed-slot elements). Equal excitation of the subarrays for receive or transmit may be provided by a feed configuration at the back of the array.

Abstract: Antenna system that includes a plurality of antenna arrangements, each having one or more ports, and all ports connected through transmission lines in a combining/splitting circuit. The antenna arrangements form a spatial phased array able to track a satellite in an elevation plane by mechanically rotating the antenna arrangements about transverse axes giving rise to generation of respective elevation angles and changing the respective distances between the axes in a predefined relationship with the respective elevation angles. The combining/splitting circuit provides phasing and signal delay in order to maintain pre configured radiating parameters. The arrangements can be mounted on a rotating platform to provide azimuth tracking. The system provides dynamic tracking of satellite signals and can be used for satellite communications on moving vehicles.