Comparison of E-band SLM and SLA printed waveguides and automotive radar antennas

In this work the research results about development of E-Band waveguides and antennas using additive manufacturing are presented. Based on empirical and physical models the losses caused by surface roughness are predicted and then compared with measurements. E-Band waveguides and antennas are manufactured using selective laser melting (SLM), aswell as stereolithography (SLA) with additional electroplating. The SLA printed components show stable geometry and good loss performance with a surface roughness of R
z
around 11 µm. The results are also compared to other publications. A potential receive antenna array for automotive radar is presented.