Characterization of a beam steering lens antenna for industrial radar measurements in harsh environments

A multifunctional feeding concept providing an adjustable beam steering for a lens-based dielectric antenna at 24 GHz is presented in this paper. Due to its ellipsoidal form, the antenna yields excellent antenna characteristics suitable for the challenges industrial radar measurements are facing. 3D-electromagnetic field simulations are an indispensable tool for the development and allow for a detailed investigation of the antenna behaviour. In this contribution, four different feeding positions resulting in four different directions are discussed in detail for a wide frequency range from 22 GHz to 28 GHz. Measurements of a prototype with an industrial radar system confirm the expected behaviour and demonstrate the applicability of the antenna.