3D-Metal-Printed 60 GHz Offset Dual-Reflector Antenna with Integrated Conical Feed Horn and Circular-to-Rectangular Waveguide Transition

The aim of this work is to investigate the potential of additive manufacturing for advanced high-frequency and high-gain antennas. A 60 GHz 3D printed offset dual-reflector antenna is designed and fabricated by selective laser melting. The dual-reflector antenna was measured at the DTU Planar Near-Field Antenna Test Facility with a peak directivity of 33 dBi which corresponds to an aperture illumination efficiency of 63%. Some specifications for the antenna are based on applications for inter-satellite link between cubesats. Simulation results in comparison with measurements are provided in this paper, showing that direct metal 3D printing is possible and may be an alternative to conventional manufacturing techniques.