Additively Manufactured Luneburg Retroreflector

A novel radar retroreflector is created using fused deposition modeling techniques. The three-dimensionally printed reflector is comprised of a variable dielectric structure generated using a set of space-filling curves, capped with a thin hemisphere of copper tape. The retroreflective performance is modeled using commercial software and radar cross section measurements are taken in an anechoic chamber. The modeled and measured results are shown to be in good agreement and demonstrate good retroreflective properties up to ±70° elevation and azimuth acceptance angles.