To make a corner reflector, you typically need two flat, reflective surfaces that intersect to form a 90-degree angle. The most common material for these surfaces is metal, such as aluminum or copper, due to its high reflectivity for electromagnetic waves. The dimensions of the corner reflector are critical and are generally determined by the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves it is intended to reflect. For example, for radar applications in the microwave bands, the sides of the reflector should be approximately half the wavelength of the transmitted signal.
Reflecting surfaces are usually arranged with one surface vertical and the other horizontal, or they may both be inclined 45 degrees to the direction of the incident wave. This configuration ensures that incident waves are reflected in the direction in which they came, thereby improving radar cross section and signal reception.
The gain of a corner reflector antenna depends on several factors, including its size, geometry, and the wavelength of the electromagnetic waves it is designed to reflect.
In general, corner reflectors can provide moderate to high gain compared to simple dipole or omnidirectional antennas. The gain is mainly due to the constructive interference of the reflected waves in the direction of the incident wave. The exact gain can be calculated based on the physical dimensions of the reflector and is influenced by factors such as reflection efficiency and losses experienced in the antenna system.
Corner reflectors have several properties that make them useful in a variety of applications.
A key property is their ability to provide a predictable and stable reflection pattern for electromagnetic waves. This predictable behavior allows for consistent Radar Cross Section (RCS) enhancement and improved signal reception in communications systems. Corner reflectors also have relatively wide bandwidth characteristics, allowing them to operate effectively over a range of frequencies within their design parameters.
They are generally lightweight and durable, making them suitable for deployment in harsh environmental conditions such as aerospace and marine applications.
A passive corner reflector is a type of reflector antenna that operates solely by reflection of incident electromagnetic waves without requiring active components or a power source. Passive corner reflectors rely solely on their geometric design and reflective surfaces to redirect incoming waves toward the source or receiver.
This feature distinguishes them from active antennas which require electrical power or signal processing to operate. Passive corner reflectors are simple in design, cost effective in manufacturing and reliable in performance, making them suitable for applications where maintaining signal integrity and improving radar visibility is essential, such as in aviation, maritime navigation and satellite communications systems