Phased Array With Pattern Shaping and Scan Loss Reduction for Millimeter Waves

In this work, we investigate antenna architectures to implement dual-mode operation in phased array designs. Planar slot antenna elements are used in array configuration, in combination with artificial dielectrics layers (ADLs) located in the close proximity of the array, to achieve pattern shaping. The artificial dielectric superstrate supports the propagation of leaky waves that can be optimized to enhance the gain in a specific angular region or to enlarge the array field of view. By controlling the amplitude and phase of the antenna elements, the radiation patterns can be combined to realize either wide or narrow beams. This concept present advantages for both millimeter-wave (mm-wave) communication and radar applications. A design of a four-element array fabricated in standard printed circuit board (PCB) technology validates the feasibility of the dual-mode operation. The measured results also show good agreement with simulations.

Automated summary

In this work, we investigate antenna architectures for dual-mode operation in phased array designs. Planar slot antenna elements are used in array configuration, along with artificial dielectric layers (ADLs) in close proximity, to achieve pattern shaping. The artificial dielectric superstrate supports leaky wave propagation that can be optimized to enhance gain in a specific angular region or expand the array's field of view. By controlling the amplitude and phase of the antenna elements, radiation patterns can be combined to realize either wide or narrow beams. This concept presents advantages for both mm-wave communication and radar applications. A four-element array design fabricated in standard printed circuit board (PCB) technology validates the feasibility of dual-mode operation, with measured results showing good agreement with simulations.