Structural design of conformal load-bearing array antenna structure (CLAAS)

Methods to improve the performance and survivability of state-of-the-art military aircrafts have been widely researched as their missions are complex and diverse. The load-bearing antenna approach takes advantage of a combination of structural and electrical functions. Their integrated, multi-functional smart skin structure is responsible for simultaneously supporting external loads and communicating data in operational conditions. This study presents a conformal load-bearing structure for array antenna. An array antenna transmits information with appropriate arrangement of radiating elements; positions and gaps are designed for optimal antenna performance. In this paper, the requirements and considerations to design the conformal load-bearing array antenna structure (CLAAS) are introduced and a structural design process for a multi-layered structure is presented. A grid structure is proposed to support multiple array antennas and to maintain solid gaps between them. This structure may also be effective in reducing out-of-plane deformation, which is directly linked to performance. Owing to its high specific strength, along with its light weight, a composite material is used. To verify the structural integrity of the presented CLAAS, static and modal analyses are executed under aircraft load conditions.