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US20070257843A1 - Microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch and a method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range - Google Patents
Microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch and a method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range Download PDF
electrically conductive
microstrip antenna
Dmitry Gooshchin
2006-05-08 Application filed by Dmitry Gooshchin filed Critical Dmitry Gooshchin
H01Q9/00—Electrically-short antennas having dimensions not more than twice the operating wavelength and consisting of conductive active radiating elements
H01Q9/04—Resonant antennas
H01Q9/0407—Substantially flat resonant element parallel to ground plane, e.g. patch antenna
H01Q1/36—Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella; Particular materials used therewith
H01Q1/38—Structural form of radiating elements, e.g. cone, spiral, umbrella; Particular materials used therewith formed by a conductive layer on an insulating support
H01Q5/00—Arrangements for simultaneous operation of antennas on two or more different wavebands, e.g. dual-band or multi-band arrangements
H01Q5/20—Arrangements for simultaneous operation of antennas on two or more different wavebands, e.g. dual-band or multi-band arrangements characterised by the operating wavebands
H01Q5/25—Ultra-wideband [UWB] systems, e.g. multiple resonance systems; Pulse systems
H01Q9/0442—Substantially flat resonant element parallel to ground plane, e.g. patch antenna with particular tuning means
An electrically conductive hexagonal patch element for a patch antenna. The hexagonal patch element comprising a hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite the first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite the third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite the fifth angle, the first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and the second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein the first angle is positioned in between the fourth angle and the sixth angle.
The present invention relates to a microstrip antenna and, more particularly but not exclusively, to a microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch.
In its simplest form, a microstrip patch antenna consists of a radiating patch positioned on a dielectric substrate which overlays a ground plane. Microstrip patch antennas have been used widely as microwave circuit elements such as transmission lines, filters, resonators, and antennas. The rapid miniaturization of complex electronic circuits has vastly increased the demand for small size antennas. Hand-held computers, aerospace applications, mobile telephones, pagers and other portable wireless equipment now comprise microstrip antennas. The desirability of microstrip antennas results from their structure, particularly in view of their compactness, conformability, aerodynamic structure and general ease of fabrication.
A microstrip antenna which is used as an extension for a microstrip transmission line radiates primarily due to the fringing electromagnetic fields between the patch edge and the ground plane. It is known that providing an antenna patch which overlays a thick dielectric substrate having a low dielectric constant improves the antenna performance since this provides better efficiency, larger bandwidth and better radiation. However, such a configuration leads to a larger antenna size. In order to design a compact microstrip patch antenna, higher dielectric constants have to be used, limiting the antenna performance to a narrower bandwidth. Another method to improve the antenna performance is to introduce parasitic elements of varying size above and/or below the driven element. The addition of parasitic elements stacked above and/or below the driven element to increase the bandwidth is less desirable in some cases because of the physical structure that is required.
A known factor that influences the performance of an antenna is the structural design of the patch. The commonly known patches are generally made of a conducting material such as copper or gold, which can be structured to form different shapes. Known shapes for the radiating patch are square, rectangular, circular, triangular, and elliptical shapes. U.S. Pat. No. 6,664,926, issued on Dec. 16, 2003, discloses a compact planar antenna wherein a radiating element in the shape of a right triangle is formed on a substrate. A ground plane may be positioned on one or both sides of the substrate. In one embodiment, the radiating elements are positioned on the substrate in groups of two or more in close proximity to one another. In another embodiment, the radiating elements are arranged in an array.
Another example of a microstrip antenna is disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 7,015,868, issued on Mar. 21, 2006. This patent discloses an antenna in which the corresponding radiative element contains at least one multilevel structure formed by a set of similar geometric patch elements (polygons or polyhedrons) electromagnetically coupled and grouped such that each of the basic component elements can be identified in the structure of the antenna. The design is such that it provides two important advantages: the antenna may operate simultaneously in several frequencies, and/or its size can be substantially reduced.
However, both patents and other known structures for patches of microstrip antenna do not provide optimum geometrical structures that allow transmission at a wide range of frequencies, while maintaining a high antenna gain level.
There is thus a widely recognized need for a compact microstrip antenna having a patch with an optimum geometrical structure which is easy to fabricate and is devoid of the above limitations.
According to one aspect of the present invention there is provided an electrically conductive hexagonal patch element for a patch antenna. The hexagonal patch element comprising a convex hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite the first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite the third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite the fifth angle, the first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and the second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein the first angle is positioned in between the fourth angle and the sixth angle.
Preferably, the sides of the hexagonal patch are approximately equal.
Preferably, the apexes of the angles are configured as at least one of the following shapes: a rounded angle, an elongated angle, an arched angle, a concave angle, and a truncated angle.
More preferably, an oblong slot is formed within the hexagonal patch element.
Preferably, the angles may be set with deviations not exceeding 5 percent.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a microstrip antenna having at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element. The microstrip antenna comprising: a first dielectric substrate having an obverse and a reverse side, an electrically conductive ground plane adapted to be coupled to the reverse side, at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element adapted to be coupled to the obverse side of the first dielectric substrate, the electrically conductive hexagonal patch element having a convex hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite the first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite the third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite the fifth angle, the first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and the second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein the first angle is positioned in between the fourth angle and the sixth angle, and a signal feed element.
Preferably, the sides of at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch are approximately equal.
Preferably, the microstrip antenna of claim further includes a radio frequency power source coupled to the signal feed element for causing the antenna element to emit an electromagnetic radiation energy pattern.
More preferably, an oblong slot is formed within the at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch.
Preferably, the electrically conductive hexagonal patches element having a surface area equal to the outcome of a function of a transmitted radiation wavelength of the microstrip antenna, and a dielectric permeability of the first dielectric substrate to the radiation.
Preferably, the microstrip antenna further comprises a second dielectric substrate.
More preferably, the second dielectric substrate is positioned in between the first dielectric substrate and the electrically conductive ground plane, wherein a portion of the signal feed element is positioned in between the first and second dielectric substrates.
More preferably, the second dielectric substrate is coupled to the bottom of the electrically conductive ground plane, the electrically conductive ground plane having at least one aperture, wherein a portion of the signal feed element is positioned in between the second dielectric substrate and the electrically conductive ground plane.
Preferably, the signal feed element is directly connected to the electrically conductive hexagonal patch element.
More preferably, the direct connection is done via the second, forth, and sixth angles in case of direct polarization.
Preferably, the second angle is truncated to form an additional side, the additional side being parallel to the central transverse axis of the at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch, the signal feed element is positioned parallelly to the additional side.
Preferably, the signal feed element is used to elevate the at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element.
Preferably, the at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element comprising at least two electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements, the microstrip antenna further comprising a patch connector, the patch connector configured to interconnect between the at least two electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements.
Preferably, the first dielectric substrate is fabricated of a material of at least one of the following group: a cured fiber reinforced resin epoxy glass fabric and Teflon fiber glass, IS 620, and Rogers material.
Preferably, the at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element is configured to be parallelly positioned proximal to the obverse side of the dielectric substrate.
Preferably, the signal feed element is adapted to be connected to a receiver.
Preferably, the signal feed element is adapted to be connected to a transmitter.
According to another aspect of the present invention there is provided a microstrip a method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range. The method comprising the steps of: feeding an antenna element with transmission signals, the antenna element comprising: a first dielectric substrate having an obverse and a reverse side, an electrically conductive ground plane adapted to be coupled to the reverse side, at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element adapted to be coupled to the obverse side of the first dielectric substrate, the electrically conductive hexagonal patch element having a convex hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite the first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite the third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite the fifth angle, the first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and the second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein the first angle is positioned in between the fourth angle and the sixth angle, and a signal feed element; and connecting the signal feed element to a signal conveyor.
Preferably, the signal conveyor is a transmitter.
Preferably, the signal conveyor is a receiver.
Preferably, the electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements having a surface area equal to the outcome of a function of a transmitted radiation wavelength of the antenna element, and a dielectric permeability of the first dielectric substrate to the radiation.
Unless otherwise defined, all technical and scientific terms used herein have the same meaning as commonly understood by one of ordinary skill in the art to which this invention belongs. The materials, methods, and examples provided herein are illustrative only and are not intended to be limiting.
Implementation of the device and method of the present invention involves performing or completing certain selected tasks or steps manually, automatically, or a combination thereof.
The invention is herein described, by way of example only, with reference to the accompanying drawings. With specific reference now to the drawings in detail, it is stressed that the particulars shown are by way of example and for purposes of illustrative discussion of the preferred embodiments of the present invention only, and are presented in order to provide what is believed to be the most useful and readily understood description of the principles and conceptual aspects of the invention. In this regard, no attempt is made to show structural details of the invention in more detail than is necessary for a fundamental understanding of the invention, the description taken with the drawings making apparent to those skilled in the art how the several forms of the invention may be embodied in practice.
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of an exemplary microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C, and 2D are perspective views of exemplary microstrip antennas, each having a hexagonally structured patch with angles having differently shaped apexes.
FIG. 2D is a perspective view of an exemplary microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch with rounded angles having an oblong slot formed therein.
FIGS. 3A, 3B, 3C are perspective views of exemplary microstrip antennas, each having a hexagonal patch with a direct contacting connection, according to embodiments of the present invention.
FIGS. 4A, 4B and 4C are perspective views of an exemplary microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch with an indirect contacting connection, according to an embodiment of present invention.
FIG. 4D is a perspective view of the exemplary dielectric substrate shown in FIG. 4B, the substrate having an aperture for coupling an indirect contacting connection, according to an embodiment of present invention.
FIG. 5 is a perspective view of an exemplary microstrip antenna having a set of four hexagonal patch elements, according to another embodiment of present invention.
FIGS. 6A, 6B and 6C are Smith charts showing the performance under different conditions of antenna elements having different structures, according to embodiments of the present invention.
FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C are standing wave radio (SWR) diagrams showing the performance under various conditions of antenna elements having different structures, according to embodiments of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a simplified flowchart diagram of a method for using a microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch for radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention.
DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS
The present embodiments comprise a microstrip antenna having one or more electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements and a method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range. The hexagonal patch elements of the microstrip antenna are designed to form a compact structure which is easy to fabricate. The structure of the hexagonal patch elements has been designed to enable high antenna gain while using the microstrip antenna for transmitting electromagnetic transmissions having a frequency from a wide bandwidth. Moreover, the structure of the hexagonal patch according to the present embodiments is designed to decrease the cross polarization radiation of the microstrip antenna.
The microstrip antenna is comprised of several components. The core of the microstrip antenna is a dielectric substrate. An electrically conductive ground plane is coupled to the bottom of the dielectric substrate. One or more electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements are parallelwise positioned in proximity to the upper side of the dielectric substrate. Each electrically conductive hexagonal patch has a convex hexagonal shape. Three angles of the convex hexagonal shape are each approximately right angles and the other angles are wide angles, each of approximately 150 degrees. Each right angle is positioned opposite a wide angle. Each wide angle is positioned in between two right angles. The microstrip antenna is coupled to a signal feed element which is used to feed the antenna with transmission signals.
The principles and operation of an apparatus and method according to the present invention may be better understood with reference to the drawings and accompanying description.
Before explaining at least one embodiment of the invention in detail, it is to be understood that the invention is not limited in its application to the details of construction and the arrangement of the components set forth in the following description or illustrated in the drawings. The invention is capable of other embodiments or of being practiced or carried out in various ways. Also, it is to be understood that the phraseology and terminology employed herein is for the purpose of description and should not be regarded as limiting.
Reference is now made to FIG. 1 which depicts an exemplary microstrip antenna 1 having a hexagonally structured patch 2 according to one embodiment of the present invention. The hexagonal patch 2 is positioned on the top side of a dielectric substrate 3. Preferably, the bottom side of the dielectric substrate 3 is coupled to an electrically conductive surface 4. The electrically conductive surface 4 has been retained for a reference or a ground plane surface.
As described above, microstrip antennas are used as microwave circuit elements such as transmission lines, filters, resonators, and antennas. The desirability of the microstrip antennas results from their structures, particularly in view of their compactness, conformability, and general ease of fabrication. However, commonly known disadvantages of known microstrip antennas are, inter alia, their narrow frequency bandwidth and their low efficiency factor, which results from low antenna gain.
In order to overcome the aforementioned disadvantages, the geometrical form of the hexagonal patch 2 has been chosen so as to maximize the efficiency factor while extending the frequency range. The patch 2 is configured as a generally convex hexagonal shape with a set of three wide angles and a set of three approximately right angles. Each one of the wide angles 11, 13, 15 measures approximately 150 degrees. Each one of the right angles 12, 14, 16 measures approximately 90 degrees. Each one of the wide angles 11, 13, 15 is positioned in between two of the right angles. Each wide angle 11, 13, 15 is positioned opposite a right angle 14, 16, 12, respectively. The complex geometrical form of the hexagonal patch 2 has been structured to optimize the functioning of the microstrip antenna 1. Preferably, the unique angular structure of the hexagonal patch 2 preferably give rise to the formation of an approximately equilateral hexagonal patch 2 having sides which are approximately equal.
Preferably, each one of the wide angles should be an angle of between 145.5 degrees and 154.5 degrees and each one of the right angles should be an angle of between 85.5 degrees and 94.5 degrees. The patch antenna can be made with deviations not exceeding 5% in one or more of the above angles. It should be noted that microstrip antenna with a hexagonal patch having angles with a 5 percent deviation from the afore-described optimal angular design yields results which are close to those of a patch having the precise angles detailed herein.
Reference is now made to FIGS. 2A, 2B, 2C and 2D which depict an exemplary microstrip antenna 1 having a hexagonally structured patch 2 with angles having differently shaped apexes. Parts that are the same as in FIG. 1 are given the same reference numerals and are not described again except as necessary for an understanding of the present issue. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 1, the hexagonally structured patch 2 is configured as having angles with sharpened apexes. However, it will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art that, if desired, a hexagonally structured patch having angles with apexes which are shaped differently. The apex of the angles may be shaped, for example, rounded, as depicted in FIG. 2A, elongated, as depicted in FIG. 2B, concave, as depicted in FIG. 2C, or shaped in any other manner as desired. FIG. 2D depicts a hexagonally structured patch having angles with rounded apexes and an oblong slot 7 formed therein. The oblong slot 7 may be formed with different width and length and may be positioned in different locations along the surface area of the hexagonally structured patch. The forming of an oblong slot 7 along a hexagonally structured patch having angles with rounded apexes, for example, improves the performance of the microstrip antenna 1 under various conditions.
Reference is now made, once again, to FIG. 1. The microstrip antenna 1 may be used to emit electromagnetic radiation having different wavelengths. The frequency of the transmitted electromagnetic radiation is affected by the surface area of the hexagonal patch 2 and by the relative dielectric permeability of the dielectric substrate 3 to the radiation. The relationship between the size of the hexagonal patch 2 and the wavelength of the transmitted radiation can be described by the following equation: S ≅ ( λ 0 2  ɛ r ) 2 · 1.2
where S denotes the surface area of the hexagonal patch 2, λ0 denotes the transmitted radiation wavelength, and ∈r denotes the relative dielectric permeability of the dielectric substrate 3 to the radiation.
Since the wavelength λ has an inverse relationship to the frequency of the transmissions, the frequency of the radiation of the microstrip antenna 1 can be described by the following equation: λ = c f
where f denotes the frequency, λ0 denotes the wavelength, as described above, and c denotes the speed of light in space.
As described above, in order to increase the antenna performance and to provide a better efficiency factor and a larger bandwidth, a dielectric substrate with a relatively low dielectric constant has to be used. Accordingly, the dielectric substrate 3 is preferably made of a partially cured, fiber-reinforced resin epoxy glass fabric, Teflon fiber glass, IS 620, Rogers material and others.
Preferably, the dielectric substrate has a thickness ranging between 0.5 mm and 2 mm and a dielectric constant ranging between of about 2 and about 10.
Preferably, when the dielectric substrate is fiber-reinforced resin epoxy glass the thickness is 0.8 mm and the dielectric constant is 4.5.
As commonly known, when the feed is conveyed to the microstrip antenna 1, fringing electromagnetic fields are formed in the gap between the hexagonal patch 2 and the electrically conductive surface 4. The dielectric substrate 3 is positioned in the gap. The fringing fields generate the transmitted electromagnetic waves.
Reference is now made to FIGS. 3A, 3B and 3C which show exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The hexagonally structured patch 2, the dielectric substrate 3, and the electrically conductive surface 4 are similar to those shown in FIG. 1 above. However, these figures further depict direct contacting connections, described below, which are used to transfer signals to the microstrip antenna 1.
As with many other antennas the microstrip antenna 1 is used to transmit radio frequency (RF) or other electromagnetic waves. In use, the microstrip antenna 1 receives signals from an electronic circuit and generates electromagnetic radiation accordingly. The signals are received from one or more connections which are coupled to the body of the microstrip antenna 1, as described below. The signal feed may be transferred to the microstrip antenna 1 in a contacting manner, such as discussed with regard to FIGS. 3A-C or in a non-contacting manner, as discussed below with regard to FIGS. 4A-D.
In the embodiments of the present invention shown in FIGS. 3A-C, the signal feed is transferred to the microstrip antenna 1 via a direct contacting connection such as a microstrip line feed and a coaxial feed. FIG. 3A depicts a microstrip antenna 1 having an integrally formed microstrip line 101 which is used for connecting a signal feed to the microstrip antenna 1 via the hexagonally structured patch 2.
The integrally formed microstrip line 101 is preferably connected to any one of the angles of the patch 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, however in case of a linear polarization the integrally formed microstrip line 101 is directly connected to one of the right angles of the patch 12, 14, 16.
FIGS. 3B and 3C show respective sectional perspective and external perspective views of a microstrip antenna 1 connected to a coaxial connector 100 positioned on the bottom side of the dielectric substrate 3. The coaxial connector 100 is connected to a conductor 102 which is used to conduct the feed to the hexagonal patch 2. Both FIGS. 3B and 3C depict a contact feeding method using a coaxial probe connection.
Reference is now made to FIGS. 4A, 4B, 4C and 4D, which show exemplary embodiments of the present invention. The hexagonally structured patch 2, the dielectric substrate 3, and the electrically conductive surface 4 are similar to those shown in FIG. 1 above. However, these figures further depict a non-direct connection which is used to transfer signals to the microstrip antenna 1.
FIG. 4A depicts an embodiment which utilizes a non-contact coupling method which is known as proximity coupling. As depicted, the microstrip antenna 1 includes another dielectric substrate 201 positioned between the first dielectric substrate 3 and the electrically conductive surface 4. The dual dielectric substrate structure enables the positioning of a microstrip line 200 in-between the dielectric substrates 3 and 201, proximal to the electrically conductive surface 4 and the hexagonal patch 2. This configuration allows non-contact coupling, known as proximity coupling, between the microstrip line 200 and the patch 2.
FIG. 4B depicts another embodiment utilizing a non-contact coupling method which is known as an aperture coupling method. This structure is similar to that utilizing proximity coupling which is depicted in FIG. 4A as it also uses two substrates. However, the difference is that the electrically conductive surface 4 in FIG. 4B is positioned in between the two substrates 3 and 201. As depicted at reference number 204 of FIG. 4D, an aperture exists on the electrically conductive surface 4, preferably in the geometrical center thereof, to allow non-contact coupling between microstrip line 202 and patch 2 to take place via the aperture 4. Thus, in this embodiment, non-contact coupling, known as aperture coupling, is achieved between microstrip line 202 and patch 2.
FIG. 4C depicts another embodiment utilizing a non-contact coupling method. This structure is similar to that utilizing proximity coupling which is depicted in FIG. 1 as it uses only the first dielectric substrate 3 and the electrically conductive surface 4. However, one difference is that one of the patch 2 angles has been truncated to form an additional side 205 which is preferably parallel to the central transverse axis of the microstrip antenna 1. Another difference is that a microstrip line 203 is FIG. 4C is positioned on the dielectric substrate 3, beside the patch 2 without making make a physical contact with it. Preferably, the microstrip line 203 is positioned in parallel to the additional side 205.
Reference is now made to FIG. 5 which depicts an exemplary microstrip antenna 300 that comprises a set of hexagonal patches 2 according to another exemplary embodiment of the present invention. Each one of the hexagonal patches 2, the dielectric substrate 3, and the electrically conductive surface 4 are as in FIG. 1 above. However, in the present embodiment, each the hexagonal patches are connected via a set of patch connection strips 301, 303 and 304 to improve the performance of the microstrip antenna 300.
This novel structure of the hexagonal patches 2 is used in microstrip antennas that comprise more than one patch. For example, FIG. 5 depicts a microstrip antenna 300 having a set of four hexagonal patches 2. The hexagonal patches are interconnected by patch connection strips 301, 303 and 304 which enable the transmission of signals from a signal feed to all the patches 2. Preferably, the patch connection strips 301, 303 and 304 are coupled to one or more external feeds that transmit signals via a connector 302. Preferably, the connector 302 is positioned in the geometrical center of the central patch connection strip 304.
In one embodiment of the present invention (not shown), the connector may be used to elevate the set of hexagonal patches so as to form an air gap between the set of hexagonal patches and the dielectric substrate which is coupled above the electrically conductive surface 4. Preferably, the gap is 5 mm high. Preferably, the microstrip antenna is hermetically sealed with a radio-transparent cover.
Preferably, the microstrip antenna is coupled to a number of passive elements or to additional layers of dielectric substrate which are used to enhance the radiation and its bandwidth.
Preferably, the microstrip antenna may be integrated into different structures. Other known ways of coupling different elements may be used to adjust the microstrip antenna 1 to achieve a linear polarization in one or more directions, circular polarization, and mixed polarization.
One advantage of the microstrip antenna 300 of FIG. 5, or of any other microstrip antenna having one or more hexagonal patches 2, is that it provides the ability to transmit RF waves in a wide range of frequencies while maintaining high gain levels.
Preferably, a microstrip antenna having a set of four hexagonal patches 300 according to the present embodiments is designed so as to maintain a high antenna gain level of approximately 14 dBi. The antenna gain reflects the ratio of the power required at the input of a hypothetical antenna having the same properties that radiates or receives equally in all directions (a known isotropic antenna) to the power supplied to the input of the microstrip antenna of the present invention. The measured supplied power reflects the power required to produce, in a given direction, the same field strength at the same distance. The antenna gain refers to the direction of maximum radiation of the antenna.
The microstrip antenna 300 maintains a gain level of at least 14 dBi at a range of frequencies between 2.9 GHz and 3.8 GHz. The high antenna gain level reflects a high efficiency factor which is maintained through a wide range of frequencies. The ratio between the mean of the transmission frequency (3.35 GHz) and the range of frequencies in which the antenna gain is high (3.8 GHz−2.9 GHz=0.9 GHz) is 26.8%, as calculated by the following equation: Δ   f f mean - = f max - f min ( f max + f min ) · 0.5 · 100 = 0.9 3.35 · 100 = 26.8  %
where fmax denotes the maximum efficient transmission frequency, fmin denotes the minimum efficient transmission frequency, and fmean denotes the mean of the range of the efficient transmission frequencies. It should be noted that a microstrip antenna that comprises a set of more than four hexagonal patches may achieve an extended range of frequencies. Preferably, the hexagonal patches are integrated into an active antenna array.
Reference is now made to FIG. 8, which is a flowchart of an exemplary method, according to a preferred embodiment of the present invention, for radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range. During the first step, as shown at 400, an antenna element having one or more hexagonal patches is fed with transmission signals. The antenna element comprises a dielectric substrate, a signal feed element, and an electrically conductive ground plane which is coupled to the bottom of the dielectric substrate. As described above, one or more electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements are coupled to the upper side of the dielectric substrate. Each one of the electrically conductive antenna elements has a convex hexagonal shape with three approximately right angles and three wide angles. Each wide angle is positioned opposite a right angle. Each one of the wide angles measures approximately 150 degrees and each one of the right angles measures approximately 90 degrees. Each wide angle is positioned in between two right angles. The signal feed element is connected to a receiver, a transmitter or both. During step 401, the signal feed element receives positional information regarding the position of the device.
It is expected that during the life of this patent many relevant devices and systems will be developed and the scope of the terms herein, particularly of the term "dielectric substrate" is intended to include all such new technologies a priori.
Additional objects, advantages, and novel features of the present invention will become apparent to one ordinarily skilled in the art upon examination of the following examples, which are not intended to be limiting. Additionally, each of the various embodiments and aspects of the present invention as delineated hereinabove and as claimed in the claims section below finds experimental support in the following examples.
Reference is now made to the following examples, which together with the above descriptions illustrates the invention in a non-limiting fashion.
FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C show experimental data to illustrate one of the main advantages provided by the microstrip antenna according to the present embodiments, the advantage being the ability to maintain a high antenna gain level over a wide range of frequencies. FIG. 6A is a Smith diagram which is related to a microstrip antenna having a set of 4 patches and FIG. 6B is a Smith diagram which relates to a microstrip antenna having one patch. FIG. 6C is a Smith diagram which is related to a comparative microstrip antenna having a classical square patch having a surface area which is approximately similar to that of the microstrip antenna of the present embodiments. All the used hexagonal patches are approximately equilateral. Smith diagrams are familiar tools within the art and are thoroughly described in the literature, for instance in chapters 2.2 and 2.3 of "Microwave Transistor Amplifiers, Analysis and Design" by Guillermo Gonzales, Ph.D.; Prentice-Hall, Inc.; Englewood Cliffs, N.J. 07632, USA; ISBN 0-13-581646-7. Reference is also made to "Antenna Theory—Analysis and Design"; Balanis Constantine; John Wiley & Sons, Inc.; ISBN 0471606391, pages 43-46, 57-59. Both of these books are fully incorporated herein by reference- and, therefore, the nature of Smith diagrams is not discussed here in detail. However, in brief, the Smith diagrams in this specification illustrate the input impedance of the antenna: Z=R+jX, where R denotes the resistance, X denotes the reactance, and j denotes an operator which, when multiplied, advances the phase of a wave motion (phasor) through an angle of 90°.
If the reactance X>0, it is referred to as inductance; otherwise it is referred to as capacitance. In the diagrams of FIGS. 6A, 6B, and 6C, the values at four different frequencies are indicated as markers 1-4.
As depicted in the Smith diagrams of FIGS. 6A and 6B, the efficiency factor reflects antenna gain levels which remain relatively high over a wide range of frequencies. The Smith diagrams reflect the gain levels over frequencies between 2.7 GHz and 4.0 GHz.
FIGS. 7A and 7B illustrate standing wave ratio (SWR) diagrams for a single patch microstrip between a four patch microstrip and a single patch microstrip, respectively, when kept in free space. FIG. 7C is a SWR diagram which is related to a comparative microstrip antenna having a classical square patch. All the used hexagonal patches are approximately equilateral.
SWR is defined as the ratio between maximum voltage or current and minimum voltage or current. In the diagrams of FIGS. 7A, 7B and 7C, the values at four different frequencies are indicated as markers 1-4.
The SWR diagram in FIG. 7A exhibits a very broad resonance cavity in between 2.9 GHz and 3.8 GHz, covering important frequency bands. The SWR diagram in FIG. 7B exhibits a very broad resonance cavity at approximately 3.5 GHz.
Of course, it should also be understood that the resonant dimensions may be defined by the size and position of the hexagonal patches as depicted in the embodiment of FIG. 1 and by the combination or permutation of the hexagonal patches as depicted in the embodiment of FIG. 5. Furthermore, other shape altering techniques for controlling the relative resonant dimensions will also occur to those skilled in the art upon consideration of the above-described embodiments of this invention.
It is appreciated that certain features of the invention, which are, for clarity, described in the context of separate embodiments, may also be provided in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features of the invention, which are, for brevity, described in the context of a single embodiment, may also be provided separately or in any suitable subcombination.
Although the invention has been described in conjunction with specific embodiments thereof, it is evident that many alternatives, modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art. Accordingly, it is intended to embrace all such alternatives, modifications and variations that fall within the spirit and broad scope of the appended claims. All publications, patents, and patent applications mentioned in this specification are herein incorporated in their entirety by reference into the specification, to the same extent as if each individual publication, patent or patent application was specifically and individually indicated to be incorporated herein by reference. In addition, citation or identification of any reference in this application shall not be construed as an admission that such reference is available as prior art to the present invention.
1. An electrically conductive hexagonal patch element for a patch antenna, said hexagonal patch element comprising a convex hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite said first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite said third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite said fifth angle, said first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and said second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein said first angle is positioned in between said fourth angle and said sixth angle.
2. The electrically conductive hexagonal patch element of claim 1, wherein the sides of said hexagonal patch are approximately equal.
3. The electrically conductive hexagonal patch element of claim 1, wherein the apexes of said angles are configured as at least one of the following shapes: a rounded angle, an elongated angle, an arched angle, a concave angle, and a truncated angle.
4. The electrically conductive hexagonal patch element of claim 3 wherein an oblong slot is formed within said hexagonal patch element.
5. The electrically conductive hexagonal patch element of claim 1, wherein said angles may be set with deviations not exceeding 5 percent.
6. A microstrip antenna having at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element, said microstrip antenna comprising:
a first dielectric substrate having an obverse and a reverse side;
an electrically conductive ground plane adapted to be coupled to said reverse side;
at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element adapted to be coupled to said obverse side of said first dielectric substrate, said electrically conductive hexagonal patch element having a convex hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite said first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite said third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite said fifth angle, said first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and said second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein said first angle is positioned in between said fourth angle and said sixth angle; and
a signal feed element.
7. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein the sides of at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch are approximately equal.
8. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, further including a radio frequency power source coupled to said signal feed element for causing said antenna element to emit an electromagnetic radiation energy pattern.
9. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein the apexes of said angles are configured as at least one of the following shapes: a rounded angle, an elongated angle, an arched angle, a concave angle, and a truncated angle.
10. The electrically conductive hexagonal patch element of claim 9 wherein an oblong slot is formed within said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch.
11. The microstrip antenna of claim 6 wherein said angles may be set with deviations not exceeding 5 percent.
12. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element having a surface area equal to the outcome of a function of a transmitted radiation wavelength of said microstrip antenna, and a dielectric permeability of said first dielectric substrate to the radiation.
13. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, further comprising a second dielectric substrate.
14. The microstrip antenna of claim 13, wherein said second dielectric substrate is positioned in between said first dielectric substrate and said electrically conductive ground plane, wherein a portion of said signal feed element is positioned in between said first and second dielectric substrates.
15. The microstrip antenna of claim 13, wherein said second dielectric substrate is coupled to the bottom of said electrically conductive ground plane, said electrically conductive ground plane having at least one aperture, wherein a portion of said signal feed element is positioned in between said second dielectric substrate and said electrically conductive ground plane.
16. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said signal feed element is directly connected to said electrically conductive hexagonal patch element.
17. The microstrip antenna of claim 16, wherein said direct connection is done via said second, forth, and sixth angles in case of direct polarization.
18. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said second angle is truncated to form an additional side, said additional side being parallel to the central transverse axis of said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch, said signal feed element is positioned parallelly to said additional side.
19. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said signal feed element is used to elevate said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element.
20. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element comprising at least two electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements, said microstrip antenna further comprising a patch connector, said patch connector configured to interconnect between said at least two electrically conductive hexagonal patch elements.
21. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said first dielectric substrate is fabricated of a material of at least one of the following group: a cured fiber reinforced resin epoxy glass fabric and Teflon fiber glass, IS 620, and Rogers material.
22. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element is configured to be parallelly positioned proximal to said obverse side of said dielectric substrate.
23. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said signal feed element is adapted to be connected to a receiver.
24. The microstrip antenna of claim 6, wherein said signal feed element is adapted to be connected to a transmitter.
25. A method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range, said method comprising the steps of:
(a) feeding an antenna element with transmission signals, said antenna element comprising:
a first dielectric substrate having an obverse and a reverse side,
an electrically conductive ground plane adapted to be coupled to said reverse side,
at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element adapted to be coupled to said obverse side of said first dielectric substrate, said electrically conductive hexagonal patch element having a convex hexagonal shape with a first angle and a second angle opposite said first angle, a third angle and a fourth angle opposite said third angle, a fifth angle and a sixth angle opposite said fifth angle, said first, third, and fifth angles each measuring approximately 150 degrees and said second, forth, and sixth angles each measuring approximately 90 degrees, wherein said first angle is positioned in between said fourth angle and said sixth angle, and
a signal feed element; and
(b) connecting said signal feed element to a signal conveyor.
26. The method of radiating electromagnetic energy of claim 25, wherein said signal conveyor is a transmitter.
27. The method of radiating electromagnetic energy of claim 25, wherein said signal conveyor is a receiver.
28. The method of radiating electromagnetic energy of claim 25, said at least one electrically conductive hexagonal patch element having a surface area equal to the outcome of a function of a transmitted radiation wavelength of said antenna element, and a dielectric permeability of said first dielectric substrate to the radiation.
US11/429,126 2006-05-08 2006-05-08 Microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch and a method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range Active 2026-05-25 US7403159B2 (en)
US11/429,126 US7403159B2 (en) 2006-05-08 2006-05-08 Microstrip antenna having a hexagonal patch and a method of radiating electromagnetic energy over a wide predetermined frequency range
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Does change in ProShares BUY signals indicate sector rotation?
Sometimes it is as instructive to see what sectors are out of favor as it is to see what sectors are in favor.
Recently we posted a list of the strongest BUY and SELL signals found in the family of ProShares ETFs. This earlier post found mostly inverse ETFs generating the strongest BUY signals. This was interpreted as a display of a very negative outlook on the stock market as nearly every sector was represented.
The fact that the UltraShort funds are falling off the BUY list indicates that those sectors are at least showing some improvement. This may not yet signal that investors should buy the corresponding Ultra Long ETFs but it does indicate that this is something that bears watching.
Some of the more interesting aspects of the above list are that small caps, as represented by the Russell 2000 ETFs are perhaps finding some favor among investors as are REITs (SRS) and China (FXP).
Health Care was seeing some favor as a defensive sector but now we see that the Ultra Health Care ETF (RXL) is no longer generating a strong BUY signal. This could also signify that investors are becoming less defensive and more inclined to take on some risk.
And when semiconductors are attracting buyers, you know that risk-taking is definitely back. Witness the UltraShort Semiconductor ETF (SSG) now falling off the BUY list.
As a final word of caution, this list shows ETFs that are no longer generating strong BUY signals. This does not necessarily imply that they are now generating strong SELL signals. This list is meant primarily as an indicator of a potential changing of the guard in terms of leading sectors. Investors should be alert, especially after the rallies we have seen in the last two days.


text:
package org.apache.kafka.common;

import java.util.HashMap;
import java.util.Map;

import org.apache.kafka.common.utils.Utils;

/**
 * The MetricName class encapsulates a metric's name, logical group and its related attributes
 *

 * This class captures the following parameters
 *

 *  name The name of the metric
 *  group logical group name of the metrics to which this metric belongs.
 *  description A human-readable description to include in the metric. This is optional.
 *  tags additional key/value attributes of the metric. This is optional.
 *

 * group, tags parameters can be used to create unique metric names while reporting in JMX or any custom reporting.
 *

 * Ex: standard JMX MBean can be constructed like  domainName:type=group,key1=val1,key2=val2
 *

 * Usage looks something like this:
 *
{@code
 * // set up metrics:
 * Metrics metrics = new Metrics(); // this is the global repository of metrics and sensors
 * Sensor sensor = metrics.sensor("message-sizes");
 *
 * Map<String, String> metricTags = new LinkedHashMap<String, String>();
 * metricTags.put("client-id", "producer-1");
 * metricTags.put("topic", "topic");
 *
 * MetricName metricName = new MetricName("message-size-avg", "producer-metrics", "average message size", metricTags);
 * sensor.add(metricName, new Avg());
 *
 * metricName = new MetricName("message-size-max", "producer-metrics", metricTags);
 * sensor.add(metricName, new Max());
 *
 * metricName = new MetricName("message-size-min", "producer-metrics", "message minimum size", "client-id", "my-client", "topic", "my-topic");
 * sensor.add(metricName, new Min());
 *
 * // as messages are sent we record the sizes
 * sensor.record(messageSize);
 * }

 */
public final class MetricName {

    private final String name;
    private final String group;
    private final String description;
    private Map<String, String> tags;
    private int hash = 0;

    /**
     * @param name        The name of the metric
     * @param group       logical group name of the metrics to which this metric belongs
     * @param description A human-readable description to include in the metric
     * @param tags        additional key/value attributes of the metric
     */
    public MetricName(String name, String group, String description, Map<String, String> tags) {
        this.name = Utils.notNull(name);
        this.group = Utils.notNull(group);
        this.description = Utils.notNull(description);
        this.tags = Utils.notNull(tags);
    }

    /**
     * @param name          The name of the metric
     * @param group         logical group name of the metrics to which this metric belongs
     * @param description   A human-readable description to include in the metric
     * @param keyValue      additional key/value attributes of the metric (must come in pairs)
     */
    public MetricName(String name, String group, String description, String... keyValue) {
        this(name, group, description, getTags(keyValue));
    }

    private static Map<String, String> getTags(String... keyValue) {
        if ((keyValue.length % 2) != 0)
            throw new IllegalArgumentException("keyValue needs to be specified in paris");
        Map<String, String> tags = new HashMap<String, String>();

        for (int i = 0; i < keyValue.length / 2; i++)
            tags.put(keyValue[i], keyValue[i + 1]);
        return tags;
    }

    /**
     * @param name  The name of the metric
     * @param group logical group name of the metrics to which this metric belongs
     * @param tags  key/value attributes of the metric
     */
    public MetricName(String name, String group, Map<String, String> tags) {
        this(name, group, "", tags);
    }

    /**
     * @param name        The name of the metric
     * @param group       logical group name of the metrics to which this metric belongs
     * @param description A human-readable description to include in the metric
     */
    public MetricName(String name, String group, String description) {
        this(name, group, description, new HashMap<String, String>());
    }

    /**
     * @param name  The name of the metric
     * @param group logical group name of the metrics to which this metric belongs
     */
    public MetricName(String name, String group) {
        this(name, group, "", new HashMap<String, String>());
    }

    public String name() {
        return this.name;
    }

    public String group() {
        return this.group;
    }

    public Map<String, String> tags() {
        return this.tags;
    }

    public String description() {
        return this.description;
    }

    @Override
    public int hashCode() {
        if (hash != 0)
            return hash;
        final int prime = 31;
        int result = 1;
        result = prime * result + ((group == null) ? 0 : group.hashCode());
        result = prime * result + ((name == null) ? 0 : name.hashCode());
        result = prime * result + ((tags == null) ? 0 : tags.hashCode());
        this.hash = result;
        return result;
    }

    @Override
    public boolean equals(Object obj) {
        if (this == obj)
            return true;
        if (obj == null)
            return false;
        if (getClass() != obj.getClass())
            return false;
        MetricName other = (MetricName) obj;
        if (group == null) {
            if (other.group != null)
                return false;
        } else if (!group.equals(other.group))
            return false;
        if (name == null) {
            if (other.name != null)
                return false;
        } else if (!name.equals(other.name))
            return false;
        if (tags == null) {
            if (other.tags != null)
                return false;
        } else if (!tags.equals(other.tags))
            return false;
        return true;
    }

    @Override
    public String toString() {
        return "MetricName [name=" + name + ", group=" + group + ", description="
                + description + ", tags=" + tags + "]";
    }
}

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaGithub


text:
Scientists Now Think They Know How the Universe Forges Most Heavy Metals
Brandon Gage
Neutron star collison.
We are made of star stuff. With the exception of hydrogen and some helium, all the elements that we know and are made of were forged in the hot cores of giant stars billions of years ago. This includes carbon, nitrogen, oxygen and iron. Now, scientists are learning how most of the Universe's heavy metals, like silver, gold, platinum and uranium, are generated. Without metals, life (as we know it) can not exist.
For the first time, in August 2017, two neutron stars were directly observed colliding with one another and collapsing into a black hole. The event occurred 130 million light years away. Astronomers at the Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatories (LIGO) in the United States and the Virgo Interferometer in Italy detected gravitational waves, ripples in the fabric of spacetime caused by the birth of a black hole, emitting from a pair of merging neutron stars.
Astronomy black holes gravity waves heavy metals metals neutron stars universe
Gravity Waves: What Can They Teach Us About the Universe?
Greg Stevens
[DIGEST: Gizmodo, PBS, APS Physics]
There is renewed chatter among physicists about a long-awaited discovery that may come some time this year: the observation of gravity waves. The anticipation is like the lead up to the release of The Force Awakens, but for high energy physicists rather than Star Wars fans. What might happen and what will it mean? And the stakes are high. If we can detect gravity waves, we can open the door to new theories about the fundamental nature of the Universe.
Big Bang Cosmology gravity waves physics string theory

redpajama_set_name: RedPajamaCommonCrawl


98 Blue Girls were finalists at the Piggly Wiggly Shootout in Mt. Pleasant Congratulations to the 98 Blue Girls for a runner-up finish at the 2009 Piggly Wiggly Shootout in Mt. Pleasant on March 28th & 29th. Amidst staunch competition, the girls were able to play their way into the championship game undefeated where they faced their long-time rival from James Island. Although they came up short against the powerful Luna Chicks team, the girls battled and provided another strong showing for Columbia United!
Congratulations to the Columbia United 99 Boys White team for winning the Piggly Wiggly Soccer tournament championship held in Mt. Pleasant, South Carolina on March 28-29th. The boys played hard the entire weekend through the windy and wet weather to go 4-0 in the tournament. They competed against teams from Charlotte, Raleigh, Mt. Pleasant, and Savannah. They won 4-2, 1-0, 6-0, and 5-4. The championship game went to double overtime and was decided by 8 penalty kicks!!
Congratulations to the coaches and boys for playing so hard and keeping up the intensity throughout the entire tournament.


text:
Volume VII, Issue 4 | August 30, 2021
In spite of a pandemic, the SMC community had so much to celebrate. SMC in Focus takes a look back at the last academic year: a landmark anniversary, a new campus, a first Diploma Drive-Thru, millions of financial aid given to students who needed it.
Volume VII, Issue 4
Overcoming Resistance
A Service Person, a People Person
The Backbone of Transfers
Bicycle Recycler
carousel navigation button
Still from Broken Layers
Diploma Drive Thru
Early Childhood Lab School
Transportation on the Big Blue Bus
Throughout its 90+ year history, Santa Monica College has been known as a trailblazer in numerous ways: championing and expanding access to equitable, high-quality transfer and career education, creating first-of-its-kind academic programs, and so much more. In spite of the uncertainties brought on by COVID-19 and the swift move to an online environment (a first in SMC's history), SMC still had so much to celebrate. SMC in Focus is pleased to present a few highlights from the 2020-2021 Annual Report (Read the full 2020-2021 Report):
SMC marked a landmark anniversary: as the leading transfer college to the University of California for three decades straight! 2019-20 data from the UC Information Center once again listed Santa Monica College as the leader among all California community colleges in not just overall transfers, but also as #1 for both African American and Chicanx/Latinx transfers to the UC. Santa Monica College transferred a total of 1,197 students to the UC System in 2019-20. Moreover, the college continues to be #1 in transfers to USC and Loyola Marymount University and continues to transfer more student to Columbia University than any other college west of the Mississippi.
SMC held a historic, first-ever Diploma Drive-Thru celebration which was later followed by a virtual commencement ceremony. The drive-thru, held June 19, 2021, attracted nearly 800 graduates and their families. The online commencement ceremony featured California State Treasurer Fiona Ma as keynote speaker. Highlights of this year's graduating class:
--8,131 degrees and certificates awarded to 5,135 students
--27 Bachelor of Science in Interaction Design awarded (fourth graduating class)
--The youngest nine graduates were 17 years old and graduated with an Associate degree. The oldest graduate was 94 and graduated with a Certificate of Achievement in Animation Foundation.
--The graduating class included 538 international students, 458 students with disabilities, 204 EOPS students, 71 undocumented students, and two foster youths.
The Santa Monica Early Childhood Lab School—over three decades in the waiting—is ready to serve children and families in the community beginning this fall! The Lab School, located on the Santa Monica Civic Center, is an innovative public-private partnership to meet the needs of a community seeking and prioritizing quality early care and education, and a place to train and provide experience to those choosing to be early childhood educators. Santa Monica College and the City of Santa Monica, with support from the RAND Corporation, teamed up two decades ago to identify a location to build the 20,000 square feet complex which comprises three buildings encompassing four infant and toddler classrooms, four preschooler classrooms, extensive outdoor play spaces/outdoor classrooms, an art studio and kiln, two instructional classrooms and observation areas for SMC students, and a large multi-purpose room. SMC Early Childhood Education students will begin accessing the facility—which will be operated by the award-winning nonprofit Growing Place—in Spring 2022 for instructional purposes.
In 2020-21, SMC's Financial Aid office processed scholarships and paid financial aid (as of June 28, 2021) amounting to a total of $33,992,668. The recipients included 6,404 Pell Grant recipients ($24,194,294), 24,104 California Promise Fee Waiver Recipients and 2,719 SMC Promise recipients. The SMC Foundation awarded $681,653 in scholarships for 2020-21 to 585 students totaling 818 scholarships. The new Carol H. and Kevin W. Sharer Education Foundation Scholarship awarded up to $300,000 in total.
Of note, SMC received three rounds of Higher Education Emergency Relief Funds (HEERF) to use for direct aid to students, through the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES Act), the Coronavirus Response and Relief Supplemental Appropriations Act (CRRSAA), and the American Rescue Plan (ARP), providing an additional $21,954,965 for direct aid to students. The total aid for students thus provided from the U.S. Department of Education is $34,148,479. As of June 28, 2021, the total amount of HEERF emergency grants awarded is $12,073,100 to 8,625 unduplicated students.
SMC also received $1,928,481 from the state in an Immediate Action Budget Package for emergency financial assistance to low-income community college students. These emergency financial aid grants are direct aid to students to address students' emergency financial needs for expenses related to the COVID-19 disruption. To date, SMC has awarded $1,075,800 and will continue awarding eligible students in 2021-22 until the funds are exhausted. These funds were derived from federal funds provided to the state.
In 2020-21, the Curriculum Committee passed a grand total of 1,430 items! These included 65 new courses (one approved for Global Citizenship and 22 approved for Distance Education or AODECO); 618 existing courses approved for online delivery only in emergency contexts; 358 existing courses approved for DE; five existing courses approved for the Global Citizenship requirement; and 11 new degrees and certificates approved (four certificates of achievement, one Associate of Science degree/Certificate of Achievement, and six Noncredit Certificates of Competency).
The number of SMC distance education offerings increased dramatically from 4,580 sections to 7,279 sections this year. The Distance Education program continued to play a critical role in supporting the entire campus with the transition to an online delivery format due to COVID-19. There were numerous professional development opportunities hosted to support high-quality, equity-minded, and inclusive online teaching and learning.
Highlights in connection with local industry: The 2020 Next Gen Mentorship Program connected Black Collegian and Adelante students with industry professionals in partnership with the Santa Monica Chamber of Commerce; Computer Science and Information Systems student Industry Certification Program equitizing access to post-completion job opportunities; discipline-specific social media marketing tools; Cosmetology's long overdue salon classrooms upgrade; and more. SMC also continued to lead three regional projects, in which all 19 LA-area community colleges participate. These include Strategy, Innovation and Marketing (LA-19 SIM), California Cloud Computing, and the Center for a Competitive Workforce. Despite the remote environment, SMC's Workforce, in collaboration with faculty and community partners, has laid the groundwork, and launched cross-divisional teams and work plans to develop robust programs in eSports, Bioscience, and Aquaculture (Blue Economy). All these inter-disciplinary programs will enable students who earn credentials to transfer or enter high-wage jobs in growth areas in our local economy.
The SMC Counseling Department completed its first-ever year of "virtual-only services" in college history! Since March 2020, SMC students have continued to receive excellent counseling services via video, telephone, and email counseling. The global pandemic has presented many huge challenges, but there were definite silver linings: the department's reimagined new suite of entirely virtual and online counseling services has been largely welcomed and appreciated by our students. In an ongoing Virtual Counseling Satisfaction Survey deployed each term, starting in Summer 2020, an overwhelming majority of students rated drop-in phone counseling services and appointments, and video counseling appointments quality as good to excellent. The satisfaction ratings by Black and Latinx students were even higher.
Black Collegians Program Umoja Community celebrated its 31st year and held a virtual banquet on June 4th with performances and awards. Special guests included Black Collegians Philanthropist Ann Wang (donor of the $325,000 SMC Foundation Black Collegians endowment); and Amanda Halligan, Owner/Operator of Chick Fil-A Venice who presented a leadership scholarship to two students for their outstanding contributions. Through Ms. Wang's donation, Black Collegians Umoja Community was also able to award over $10,000 in funds for students who have been affected by the pandemic and needed assistance with school, personal, and living needs.
Through trustee Dr. Sion Roy and SMC Foundation Dean Lizzy Moore, Black Collegians and Adelante students interested in pursuing a career path in medicine took advantage of sessions with Black and Latinx doctors who helped them clarify their interest and path in the field.
The SMC Veterans' Resource Center (VRC) will officially become the Veterans Success Center (VSC). With the center moving to its new home in the garden level of the Cayton Center, the new name was designed to be more inclusive and better describe the philosophy and mission of the center. With the aid of grants from the Chancellor's Office, the center served SMC's student veterans with basic needs, conducted a veterans' student survey, facilitated Fall and Spring veterans' student orientation program, strengthened the peer mentor program, implemented a female veteran support group, launched a Transfer Boot Camp, and more.
The Center for Students with Disabilities (CSD) served nearly 1,800 students in 2020-21.
With mental health among college students a concern nationally—surveys show up to 50 percent of students attending college experience some form of distress—SMC's Center for Wellness & Wellbeing continued to offer anonymous mental health screening online and conducted approximately 1,200 screenings. The Center expand bed the social work intern program (new participating graduate social work programs to include Columbia University, USC, UCLA, and Cal State Dominguez Hills) to other SMC departments such as the Care and Prevention Team, Center for Wellness and Wellbeing, Basic Needs, Student Equity Center, and the Veterans Resource Center. SMC's 24/7 hotline continues to be highly utilized, with record usage during the pandemic.
In the area of Student Basic Needs including food security and housing security, the college and its departments (in partnership with SMC Foundation and Associated Students, too) expanded services substantially in ways including collaborating with Safe Place for Youth to offer a virtual campus peer navigator who assists students who are housing insecure with applications for temporary and long-term housing, organizing a regular drive-thru pantry, and meal project efforts which include Every Table and Bento partnerships. The Bodega Food Pantry—SMC's first on-campus pantry/basic needs support space—will open this September, 2021!
The SMC Go App, housed in and championed by the Enrollment Services Department in collaboration with several other departments, won two Appademy Awards: first place for "Best Overall Design" and second place for a special edition, Best Commencement App. The annual awards recognize outstanding app development, user experience and design among higher education institutions in ten categories. After nearly four years of existence, SMC GO was updated in April 2021 and released as version 2.0. The app was fully recreated with a new vision and philosophy that is specifically focused through the lens of a community college.
The college was recognized with a Silver Achievement Award for its successful efforts to encourage employees and students to use alternative modes to get to campus. Through the sustainability office, 75 bicycles were repaired and donated to students-in-need, through SMC's Special Programs.
Los Angeles Metro has approved its Fareless System Initiative, a two-year pilot fareless system that would include providing all enrolled community college students in Los Angeles County with the ability to ride any Metro Bus Line and any Metro Light Rail Line without fare. The program is expected to start in time for the Fall 2021 semester and will be available to Santa Monica College. SMC's existing contract with Big Blue Bus for the Any Line Any Time program will allow SMC to participate in this initiative without any additional charge to SMC. SMC students will use their existing Big Blue Bus tap card on the Metro Bus and Metro Light Rail system. The implementation details are in development.
In response to the closure of theaters as a result of the COVID-10 pandemic, The Broad Stage at the SMC Performing Arts Center refashioned itself into a provider of original online content, offering both ticketed and admission-free programs, as well as special experiences for members including a first-time drive-in film festival to audiences in partnership with Dance Camera West; illusionist, mentalist, and performance artist Scott Silven in The Journey; the virtual song cycle and visual album Breathing Free by Heartbeat Opera; Red Hen Press Poetry Hour at no charge with local publisher Red Hen Press, moderated by award-winning actor/writer Sandra Tsing Loh; and more.
SMC's NPR radio station KCRW (89.9 FM) continued to provide nationally acclaimed and timely programming and to expose SMC students to the inner workings of the station. Each year KCRW has two classes of Santa Monica College students (20 students) who work in all areas of KCRW—from marketing to membership to sales to programming and studio engineering.
In 2020-21, SMC instructional programs, faculty and staff, and students continued to earn accolades. A few are represented below:
Ming Lu, Professor of Accounting, has been selected to receive the 2021 Outstanding Educator Award by the California Society of CPAs.
Twelve SMC students participated in four regional online Debate tournaments in a total of 102 different debate rounds, and 11 awards were won by seven individual debaters.
The award-winning film production program continued to bring home recognitions: Broken Layers went to Cannes; INK, directed by Ozzy Ozuna—who is a DACA student—was featured in a National Geographic Instagram post and nominated for a BAFTA.
The same was true for the award-winning student-run media outlet The Corsair. Yasamin Jafari-Tehrani was named Student Photojournalist of the Year by Press Photographers Association of Greater Los Angeles (PPAGLA), and The Corsair's Marco Pallotti was runner-up for Photojournalist of the Year. The Corsair also won 14 awards for the Spring 2021 JACC State Publication Contest.
Dance instructor Laura Canellias was the second recipient & first woman inducted into the Salsa Hall of Fame.
English professor Carol Davis was selected by the U.S. Department of State's Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs to be a Fulbright Specialist! Once Covid-related travel restrictions are lifted and program assignments resume, Carol will spend six weeks in Russia, as a visiting lecturer and consultant at a university in Siberia.
In Athletics: The SMC Swim Team won the following: divers Melissa Theis and Melissa De La Cruz finished 1st and 2nd on the 1-Meter Board. On the Men's side Michael Bartlett finished 3rd in the 500-yard Freestyle. For the Women Risa Akatsu finished 1st in the 50, 100, and 200-yard Freestyle and the 100-Yard Butterfly, Giuliana Castro finished 3rd in the 200-yard Individual Medley and 100-yard Butterfly, 4th in the 50-yard Butterfly, and 2nd in the 200-yard Butterfly, and Karla Ramirez finished 4th in the 100- and 200-yard Breaststroke and 2nd in the 50-yard Breaststroke.
In addition, team captain sophomore Aaron Stuhaan won the 400-meters conference championship with an impressive performance under extreme heat with a 49.50 performance. And freshman sensation distance runner Tegen Arega won the conference championship in the 5000-meters with an outstanding and fearless performance under adverse winds with a personal best time of 16:39.15.
SMC in Focus Volume VII, Issue 4
Santa Monica College alumna/student Johaira Michelle Dilauro blends creative artistry with healthcare expertise to raise awareness about COVID-19 vaccines. "Hot VaXxX Summer" is part of her mission to empower people to live their best — and safest — lives possible. Read Article
Asst. Director of Facilities Operations Dennis Biddle wears several hats: overseeing a 24-hour operation, baker extraordinaire, family man. Throughout adversity – including losing his beloved sister to Covid – Dennis keeps his eyes on what matters most. Read Article
Maria Bonin is the quiet, steady force behind all that goes on at SMC's Transfer Center. This specialist, who is "honest, hardworking, creative" is also described as 'The Ambassador of Transfer.' Maria talks about a day in her life, what sustained her during the pandemic, and why she loves her job. Read Article
Velocipedes are a big part of Ferris Kawar's life. And during the pandemic, Ferris fused his passion for cycling and sustainability by gifting refurbished bikes – with the help of several volunteers – to SMC students who need them. Read Article
An accounting professor receives the 2021 California Society of CPA's Outstanding Educator Award. A communications professor lends his voice at the Tokyo Olympics. The fashion department gets major coverage. Read Article
In spite of a pandemic, the SMC community had so much to celebrate. SMC in Focus takes a look back at the last academic year: a landmark anniversary, a new campus, a first Diploma Drive-Thru, millions of financial aid given to students who needed it. Read Article


Barry Goldstein's musical experience spans many styles and genres from Co-Producing the Grammy Award winning track " 69 Freedom special with Les Paul for Best Rock Instrumental in 2005, to providing ambient music for Shirley Maclaine. Barry has composed and produced for Television, Film, Major record labels and Top Ten Recording artists. In addition, as an artist, Barry reached the Billboard top ten albums on the New Age Charts with New York Times Best Selling Author Neale Donald Walsch. Barry 's CD "Ignite the Heart" recently won the Coalition Visionary of Resources Award for best World Fusion album of 2015.
Barry's music is being used in hospitals, hospices, cancer centers, and medical practices. Barry is a keynote speaker for medical conferences and is a sought-after speaker for New Thought conferences presenting cutting edge research on how music is being utilized for medical conditions. In 2016 a team of researchers from major universities will be studying Barry's music to determine health benefits and Barry will release his first book "The Secret Language of The Heart" On Hampton Roads/Hierophant Publishing.


Tampa Bay Estuary Program and the Science Center of Pinellas County are presenting Chasing the Waves: The King Tide, a traveling photo exhibit illustrating rising tides and the impact they have on flooding. The exhibit is designed to raise public awareness of the impact rising seas and climate change have on shorelines and communities and should be important considerations when considering building or buying property near a shoreline.
Contact Misty Cladas via our contact form or call (727) 893-2765 to set up the exhibit at your location.


Is Video Gaming Really A Medical Disorder?
Neuroscientist Rachel Wurzman believes that social isolation contributes directly to opioid addiction, not to mention fueling drug use, relapses and overdoses. Wurzman's work with the striatum, the decision-making region of the brain, led to her conclusions, The Washington Post reported. Also known as the "brain's autopilot," the striatum can trigger compulsive behaviors, including drug use. When someone is isolated or feeling lonely, the striatum ends up in a hypersensitive state. "If we don't have the ability to connect socially, we are so ravenous for our social neurochemistry to be rebalanced, we're likely to seek relief from anywhere," she said. "And if that anywhere is opioid painkillers or heroin, it is going to be a heat-seeking missile for our social reward system." The same place, however, that leads to addiction can also be leveraged for positive purposes: by repeatedly connecting with other people, the striatum helps to rewire the brain for increased happiness and improved decision making.
Virtual-reality (VR) headsets used to be strictly the stuff of science fiction. Now, however, VR tech is playing a very real role in the future of addiction recovery. An innovative new tool called "VR-?" is nearing its rollout to rehab facilities nationwide. During therapy sessions, the headsets put patients in realistic situations that trigger drug and alcohol cravings. "The therapist can accompany you while you're in a bar or a party setting and teach you skills in that therapy session," said Patrick Bordnick, dean of the Tulane University School of Social Work. The VR-? tool has been integrated with smartphones, Bordnick added. The tool will afford physicians the ability to tailor treatment programs to individual patients, in order to help specific people to avoid relapse. Additionally, the tool is being leveraged to help empower autistic people with job interviewing and social interaction skills.


"She's just an objectified icon, and it's just male Hollywood doing the same old thing," exclaimed Cameron. On the other side of the spectrum, there's Patty Jenkins herself, who responded by saying that women don't have to be "hard, tough and troubled" in order to be strong. A few days later, Cameron defended his position, bringing up Linda Hamilton's turn as Sarah Connor in his film "Terminator 2: Judgement Day" as an exemplary female lead. Sarah "was [a] strong…troubled…[and] terrible mother" who had to earn the respect of the audience. He further clarified his statements by stating his belief that "Wonder Woman" is a good film — just not groundbreaking. But maybe this belief misses a fundamental characteristic of the superhero.
While it is true that Sarah Connor has a strong character arc, Diana has an arc of her own that is unique. To state the film is taking a step backwards because Diana's development doesn't begin with her as a terrible being is flawed. There is no hard-set rule that claims female characters have to be "hard, tough, and troubled" to be strong. Diana isn't troubled in the conventional sense of the archetypal female lead. She is a literal goddess — loving and caring but naïve. Throughout history, in her comic form, Wonder Woman has always been presented and seen this way.
The trouble really lies in the lack of depth found in Cameron's statement and his defense. "Like all women – we are more than the sum of our parts," claimed former Wonder Woman actress, Lynda Carter, in her critical tweet of James Cameron last week. Just because Diana is "drop-dead gorgeous" doesn't mean the film is simply pandering to 14 to 18 year old males. While that may be the case in other commercial film franchises, Wonder Woman is a representation of a conventional beauty standard. Suddenly changing the physical appearance of Diana for film may be regarded as "groundbreaking," but its relevance to the story is nonexistent.
A woman can be beautiful and strong. The two traits are not mutually exclusive. Throughout the film, the main focus of Diana's arc hinges on her naïveté as a god trying to assimilate into an imperfect and flawed human world. Sure, she doesn't start out a troubled or terrible person like Connor does in "Terminator," but that is fundamental to her character. Wonder Woman is nearly perfect, but not quite. She sees the world as binary — good and evil, while dismissing the reality of things. People, in reality, are morally gray characters. No one is as purely good and innocent as she'd like to believe, yet she must continue to love them. The turning point of her character arrives when she matures — she understands that conflicts and flaws are inherent to being mortal and human.
Another point brought up by detractors, such as James Cameron, is that Diana's outfit is representative of the pandering to the young, male crowd. Diana's outfit for the film, however, was designed to be suitable for battle. A lot of thought went into ensuring that the costume was not only familiar to fans of the comic but also practical for tactical purposes. The reinforced armor serves both functions.
In sum, changing "Wonder Woman" to match a singular definition of a strong female lead is counterintuitive in that Diana's strength lies in representing a singular character type in a broad spectrum of female characters. For many, Wonder Woman has been or has become a symbol of female empowerment. The success of this film suggests that differences between individuals should also be reflected in the role models they look up to, onscreen and off. To say the film is dismissible and a step backward is short-sighted as it ultimately struck a chord with a frequently underrepresented demographic in action films–women.


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When you come home with a bag of my savory Salmon Snaps, your dog will snap to attention. (Sorry! I couldn't resist!) Salmon's all the rage these days, so I decided to join in. Salmon Snaps will have your dog's salivary glands working overtime!
Best after: A lazy day at your favorite fishing hole.


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You are at:Home»Travel Articles»Claim It In Rio – Rio Verde Country Club Community, an Inviting and Appealing Enclave for Active Adults
Investing, much like golf, is about managing risk versus reward scenarios.
Claim It In Rio – Rio Verde Country Club Community, an Inviting and Appealing Enclave for Active Adults
By Glen Turk on	 February 2, 2017 Travel Articles
Searching for a golf experience totally unexpected in the Arizona High Sonoran Desert?
Something more traditional? More parkland? More friendly? One community just outside the Phoenix metropolitan area has what you're looking for … and then some.
Situated in the foothills of the McDowell Mountains at the edge of the Tonto National Forest, Rio Verde Country Club and Community features two Tom Lehman redesigned parkland-style courses that stand out for both its playability and beauty.
Measuring 6,535 yards, the White Wing Course boasts fairway mounding, open green fronts and deep bunkering. At 6,602 yards, the Quail Run Course offers a more classic layout reminiscent of America's great Midwestern golf venues. Unlike most desert-style target courses found in the area, Rio Verde features wall-to-wall turf, and conditions are always immaculate.
Darryl Janisse, Rio Verde's Head Golf Professional, explains that the Minnesota native and British Open Champion Tom Lehman did an incredible job redesigning two courses that not only have similarities, but eye-popping differences as well. "Both courses are designed to be very playable and are split amongst the membership as their favorite," began Janisse. "The Quail Run course is designed with rough coming right up to the collars of the greens, putting surfaces featuring subtle breaks, and bunkers with sand that flashes to the top. White Wing is designed with more mounded greens that are shaved for multiple chipping options. Plus, the greens feature more undulations and the bunkers have grass faces. One big similarity is that both courses are great for walkers," concluded Janisse.
Walking both courses is highly recommended for not only the exercise, but the experience. Often times a casual walking round opens your eyes to seeing the 360 degree views of the desert and the panoramic beauty the designer intended to bestow. Beauty and strategy collide according to Janisse on the White Wing's version of Amen Corner, holes 11 through 13. "Hole number 11 is a drivable par-4, but the green is protected by a diabolical pot bunker short of the putting surface. Water comes in behind the green so you better be accurate if going for it. The 12th hole is a reachable par-5 for long hitters but the second shot is an all-water carry right to the edge of the green. This is another great risk reward hole! Finally, the 13th is a challenging par-4 with water to the right of the green. The length and the undulation in the green makes a par feel like a birdie every time," explained Janisse.
At Quail Run golfers get to experience a hallmark hole early in their round at the 4th. "In my opinion this is the signature shot on the golf course," stated Janisse. "The 4th hole is a beautifully designed par-3 with water between you and the green. You can play it from 120 to 190 yards depending on the tee box, but the longer you play it, the more water you have to carry," ended Janisse.
Other great holes of note according to Janisse include the short par-3 16th protected by devilish bunkers and the memorable par-5 18th, one of the finest finishing holes in the desert. The only potential downfall to this hole besides your score might be heading home with a case of Sensory Overload. The 18th hole has it all, including the temptation of going for it from over 200 yards out into a peninsula green with water seemingly everywhere. Rio Verde's stunning clubhouse and the McDowell Mountains provide an eclectic backdrop and add the last piece to this perfect puzzle. That's what the fortunate membership of Rio Verde gets to experience every time they complete the inward nine at Quail Run!
Quail Run is also the site of an innovative nine-hole, par-3 course – Roadrunner – which allows Rio Verde members and guests to satisfy their golf urges in a fraction of the time of a full round. Measuring 1,088 yards, Roadrunner utilizes regulation tee boxes off the back nine fairways of Quail Run which provide a variety of approach shots to greens.
Yet, golf is only part of the story at Rio Verde. Because of its superb location, there is very little light or noise pollution. The Four Peaks, Mazatzal Mountains and McDowell Mountain range provide breathtaking vistas. More than 60 surrounding trails within the entrance to both the forest and McDowell Mountain Regional Park are just a short walk/ride from homes, allowing residents and the community hiking and cycling clubs to easily become one with nature.
Thankfully, one doesn't have to leave the cozy confines of Rio Verde to have nourishment and libations with friends. The clubhouse offers several options for dining from formal in the Copper and Sundance Rooms to casual in the Pub. Pressed for time – grab a Starbucks coffee also located in the Pub area.
The community center is an active hub that boasts a library and hosts various activities such as dance classes, weekly card games and art classes. The fitness center and heated pool and spa allow residents to participate in many organized or independent activities such as strength training, aerobics, weights, gym with treadmills, rowing and elliptical, water aerobics, and water volleyball.
Adjacent to the community center sits Rio Verde's six tennis courts, where residents can partake in rated, competitive and beginner levels of play. An on-site pro is available for lessons or drills. The four pickle ball courts are always abuzz with activity, and Rio Verde has beginner lessons plus different skill level competitions. In addition, two bocce courts add to the excitement.
When incredible amenities come together to form a devout sense of community, is it any wonder that Rio Verde's number one advantage is just one word according to General Manager Dave Ulm. "Family! In my 23 years in the golf industry I have never seen such a welcoming, energetic, and committed membership. They truly love and care for their club and its associates," regaled Ulm.
To that end, Rio Verde residents are forever learning. Many attend the on-site ASU lectures featuring an array of topics. The community is also complemented by "The Community Church of the Verdes," an interdenominational place of worship with two services, weekly bible studies, choir and book club.
The holidays are extra special at Rio Verde, as more than 6,000 luminaries line the streets on Christmas Eve each year. But it is not just the holidays when the residents offer their kindness. Residents can choose to volunteer with Habitat for Humanity, Boys and Girls Club, Sunshine Acres, Fellowship of Christian Athletes, Reigning Grace Ranch, the local food bank and many more.
Because the amenities are tucked within the community, many residents prefer roaming around Rio Verde in personal golf carts. This allows for quick access in a safe environment, and builds camaraderie via the "Rio Verde wave."
Should an emergency arise at Rio Verde, the fire department is located under five minutes away. Also, Rio Verde has a full service post office where residents can pick up their mail or send out letters and overnight packages.
Under the operational expertise of Troon, Rio Verde Country Club carries the prestigious Troon Prive' designation. As a private club of distinction, the premier reciprocal program offers full club members the opportunity to play other exclusive Troon managed courses around the world. "Since Rio Verde has partnered with Troon Privé Management, I believe our club is at a new level," stated General Manager Dave Ulm. "As part of the Troon Privé network, our members can play Troon managed private clubs for cart fee only and receive up to 40% discount off at their daily fee and resort properties. We are excited for what the future holds at Rio Verde," explained Ulm.
Audubon International, Firewise and Xeriscape have recognized Rio Verde for its water sustainability and as an eco-minded community. AZ Big Media also voted Rio Verde the No. 1 Private Golf Course and Active Adult Community in Arizona for 2015 and 2016.
On your next visit to the Arizona High Sonoran Desert, escape the city to experience something totally unexpected and enjoyable – the inviting Rio Verde Country Club Community. For more information on all that Rio Verde has to offer, visit www.rioverdearizona.com/mgm