Horizon Microtechnologies is poised to make a substantial impact at the upcoming European Microwave Week in Paris, September 22-27, 2024. On booth 147C, Horizon will not only display its pioneering advancements in micro-additive manufacturing (micro-AM) and proprietary coating technologies, but will also be presenting a highly anticipated technical paper at the event entitled “A D-band Horn Antenna Made by a Proprietary Metallization Process on Photopolymer 3D-Prints.” This presentation, set for Wednesday, September 25th, from 09:30 to 09:50, is aimed at industry professionals, researchers, and engineers who are focused on the future of millimetre-wave (mm-wave) component manufacturing and the cutting-edge technologies driving this field forward.
Horizon’s presence at European Microwave Week comes at a time when the industry is increasingly turning towards advanced manufacturing techniques to overcome the limitations of traditional production methods. mm-wave components, especially those required for high-frequency communication and industrial measurement technologies, demand a level of precision and complexity that often proves challenging for conventional machining processes. Horizon Microtechnologies is at the forefront of addressing these challenges with its innovative approach, combining the flexibility and accuracy of micro-AM with its unique HMT-Metal coating process. This combination enables the production of components that are not only smaller and lighter but also boast intricate geometries and enhanced performance characteristics that were previously unattainable.
The significance of Horizon’s technology lies in its ability to transcend the conventional boundaries of component manufacturing. The D-band horn antenna, which will be discussed in detail during the company’s presentation, exemplifies this breakthrough. Manufactured using 3D-printed photopolymer structures that are subsequently coated with a highly conductive copper layer, this antenna not only meets but exceeds the performance metrics of its traditionally manufactured counterparts. This innovation is particularly relevant as industries across the spectrum are increasingly dependent on high-frequency components that can deliver superior performance in smaller, more efficient packages.
Andreas Frölich, CEO of Horizon Microtechnologies, emphasises the importance of this development, “We are incredibly excited to showcase our latest achievements at European Microwave Week. Our work with 3D-printed, copper-coated antennas represents a major leap forward in the manufacturing of high-frequency components. The fact that our antennas are able to match and, in some cases, surpass the performance of conventionally produced antennas is a testament to the potential of micro-AM combined with our coating technologies. These antennas are not only more compact and lightweight but also demonstrate enhanced electromagnetic characteristics, such as improved matching, which are crucial for the efficacy of high-frequency applications. This success opens up new opportunities for industries that rely on mm-wave technology, providing them with components that are not only better performing but also easier and more cost-effective to produce.”
A horn antenna made via micro AM and coated in Horizon’s copper coating
Horizon’s participation at the European Microwave Week is not just about showcasing products, it’s about highlighting a transformative approach to manufacturing that has the potential to redefine the production of waveguide-based RF components. The company’s innovative use of micro-AM allows for the creation of highly precise components with complex internal features, something that traditional manufacturing methods often struggle to achieve. This capability is particularly advantageous in the production of mm-wave components, where even the smallest imperfections can lead to significant performance degradation.
Attendees visiting Horizon’s booth will have the opportunity to explore the full range of capabilities offered by the company. From the reduction in component size and weight to the enhanced performance metrics that are critical for next-generation RF applications, Horizon’s solutions are designed to meet the growing demands of the industry. By eliminating many of the limitations associated with conventional manufacturing processes, Horizon’s micro-AM and HMT-Metal coating technologies provide a pathway to faster production times, reduced costs, and the ability to produce components with previously unachievable design complexities.
