Optisys LLC has recently completed the development and production of an ultra large flat panel slotted antenna tile for use in sea, ground, aerospace and satellite applications. The nearly 1 meter long antenna was printed in metal as one continuous piece using DMLS equipment, a technology that is core to Optisys unique product offering.
“We have been developing ways we can increase the size and cost efficiency of our large array offerings,” commented Janos Opra, CEO of Optisys. “Today marks the conclusion of an incredible R&D effort to obtain this capability.”
The ultra-large tile can form the basis for a much larger array, made up of many of these building blocks and is suitable for any application already covered by Optisys technology from sea to space. The flat panel slotted antenna was chosen as a development piece because of its reliance on flatness and tight tolerances, attributes which are challenging to achieve on such a large scale using 3d metal printing.
Optisys’ successful production of this antenna, and the information gained in doing so, further extends its capability over legacy technology and competitors.
“We have been able to produce any size antenna or radar array, using tiling, for a while now,” said Michael Hollenbeck, CTO of Optisys. “However this development brings a new level of cost effectiveness and we have demonstrated our scalability to truly ground breaking sizes.”