Horn Antenna Development at 80 GHz for Tank Level Probing Radar Applications

Nagy, Lajos (2025) Horn Antenna Development at 80 GHz for Tank Level Probing Radar Applications. INFOCOMMUNICATIONS JOURNAL, 17 (1). pp. 32-39. ISSN 2061-2079

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Abstract

One important application and research area of radar technology is tank-level measurement and detection. Radar contactless level measurement is a safe solution even in extreme process conditions, such as significant overpressure, high temperatures, and the presence of corrosive vapors. The main categories of these principles are ultrasonic, and electromagnetic wave radars. We will now consider only radars using electromagnetic waves. The use of millimeter radio waves, which we use, is nowadays becoming more and more common also for automotive radars, human presence detection and human vital signs. To meet electromagnetic requirements such as high gain, low spurious levels, and high bandwidth, special antennas are required. The low sidelobe level and narrow main beam mainly reduce reflections from the side of the tank while the bandwidth determines the distance resolution of the measurement system. A further requirement is the small size and reliable manufacturability of the antenna. In the presence of corrosive vapors, antennas must be resistant to corrosion. The article briefly summarizes the material parameter measurements required for the design of the radar, and the design of the main components. We analyzed the possible dielectric materials that can be used as random or dielectric lenses for such antennas. In the next part of the paper, we present a conical horn antenna design for the 80 GHz band and compare the parameters of an open horn antenna with those of a horn antenna with a dielectric lens. Finally, a tank-level radar designed with the Texas Instruments IWR1443 radar chip is presented.

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