Quasi-optical oscillator arrays provide a means of combining the output of a large number of devices to overcome the limited power handling capabilities of individual millimeter wave solid-state devices. Because of the high-frequency of operation and the complexity of the non-linear interactions, the accurate analysis of these systems presents many challenges. Modeling requires advanced electromagnetic simulation for the radiating and bias structures as well as non-linear analysis of the individual active devices and oscillator ensemble. We propose to investigate existing linear and non-linear approaches for analyzing arrays of oscillators in a quasi-optical resonator. Our goal is to develop a general approach for designing quasi-optical arrays. The key system parameters that will be calculated are the total output power, antenna pattern, stability, dc to RF efficiency, and combining efficiency, for a given array topography and active device. Where possible this approach will build upon existing electromagnetic simulators and non-linear cad tools.Anticipated
Benefits:Because these arrays are planar they could be fabricated monolithically at relatively low cost for high volume applications. At millimeter wavelengths they would be small and lightweight. Furthermore, these quasi-optical arrays can also be steered and pulsed, thereby opening the door to a wide range of communication and radar applications at millimeter wavelengths.
