Billy E Powers

US Patent:

61306533, Oct 10, 2000

Filed:

Sep 29, 1998

Appl. No.:

9/163593

Inventors:

Billy Powers - Richardson TX
Randy J. Richards - Frisco TX

Assignee:

Raytheon Company - Lexington MA

International Classification:

H01Q 1508

US Classification:

343911R

Abstract:

A Rotman lens (12, 13) includes a first insulating layer (26) having a high dielectric constant and a second insulating layer (46) having a low dielectric constant. Metalization provided on the first insulating layer includes a lens portion (28), and metalization provided on the second insulating layer includes a plurality of transmission lines (48) and bootlace lines (52). A plurality of via openings are provided through at least one of the insulating layers, and each contain conductive material (33, 38) which electrically couples the lens portion to a respective one of the transmission lines or bootlace lines. A number of the bootlace lines physically overlap the lens portion, without electrical engagement therewith. A ground plane (63) on a further insulating layer (61) may be provided between the first and second insulating layers, in a manner free of electrical contact with the conductive material in the via openings.