Patent ID: 6735438
Filing Date: 2004-05-11
Classification: H01Q,H04B

Abstract:
A system for use in providing wireless communication service between a base station and an aircraft, the system comprising:an antenna system disposed at the base station and producing a radiation pattern directed upward into an air space above the antenna system; the radiation pattern defining a stretched dome shape; the stretched dome shape defining a substantially circular pattern about an axis substantially normal to the surface of the earth and further defining a first surface portion closest to the axis but farthest from the surface of the earth and a second surface portion farthest from the axis but closest to the surface of the earth; and in a plane normal to the surface of the earth, the stretched dome shape defining a variable radius of curvature extending from a largest radius of curvature at the first surface portion to a smallest radius of curvature at the second surface portion, whereby, when the aircraft is disposed within the radiation pattern, signals may be communicated within the radiation pattern between the base station and the aircraft.