A Compact Waveguide Connection for Space Applications Using Gap Waveguide Technology

A compact waveguide connection (CWC) is proposed using gap waveguide (GW) technology. Periodic artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) is designed surrounding the outer surface of one waveguide. Another waveguide is designed with an enlarged hollow end, whose inner surface works as the PEC surface. The profile size of the AMC structure is designed to be same as the inner cavity of the hollow end. The AMC part is inserted into the hollow end, composing a tight connection. The dimensions of the AMC structure are carefully designed to form a forbidden band to prevent electromagnetic leakage from the tiny air gap caused by machining error. A Ku-band prototype of the CWC is manufactured and test. The measured insertion and return loss is better than 0.06dB and -30dB respectively over the frequency range from 10 similar to 15GHz, the size of the proposed CWC decreases by more than 60% comparing with traditional waveguide flange.