Small satellites require compact, lightweight, costeffective, and high-performance antenna systems, including components like Ortho-Mode Transducers (OMTs). Traditional manufacturing methods limit OMT design complexity, creating procurement challenges. Additive Manufacturing (AM) offers new opportunities by enabling innovative materials, part lightweighting, intricate geometries, and advanced surface finishes. However, existing studies focus only on simple, single-band OMTs, leaving a gap in understanding the functional and economic impacts of AM. This study investigates a dual K/Ka-band OMT, specifically designed for CubeSats, featuring a compact, symmetric structure produced via Powder Bed Fusion - Laser Beam. The results show strong alignment between simulations and experimental data, confirming excellent functional performance. Additionally, the economic analysis demonstrates the affordability of this approach, highlighting its suitability for small satellite applications.
Dual K/Ka-Band 3D-Printed Ortho-Mode Transducer for CubeSat Applications
Vaglio E.;
2026-01-01
Abstract
Small satellites require compact, lightweight, costeffective, and high-performance antenna systems, including components like Ortho-Mode Transducers (OMTs). Traditional manufacturing methods limit OMT design complexity, creating procurement challenges. Additive Manufacturing (AM) offers new opportunities by enabling innovative materials, part lightweighting, intricate geometries, and advanced surface finishes. However, existing studies focus only on simple, single-band OMTs, leaving a gap in understanding the functional and economic impacts of AM. This study investigates a dual K/Ka-band OMT, specifically designed for CubeSats, featuring a compact, symmetric structure produced via Powder Bed Fusion - Laser Beam. The results show strong alignment between simulations and experimental data, confirming excellent functional performance. Additionally, the economic analysis demonstrates the affordability of this approach, highlighting its suitability for small satellite applications.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
