Shaanvi Report
Shaanvi Report
Submitted by
Submitted by
Session :- 2021-2025
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CANDIDATE’S DECLARATION
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DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL & ELECTRONICS ENGINEERING
Motihari College of Engineering, Motihari
(Department of Science and Technology, Govt. of Bihar)
East Champaran, Motihari-845401
CERTIFICATE
This is certified that the project entitled, “ANALYSIS AND DESIGN OF CPW-FED
MICROSTRIP PATCH ANTENNA FOR WIRELESS APPLICATION ” which
is being submitted to Motihari College of Engineering, Motihari for the award of the
degree of Bachelor of Technology in the department of Electrical and Electronics
Engineering record of the work carried by Shaanvi Priya under my guidance and
supervision.
Date:
Place:
-4-
Acknowledgements
We would like to express our most sincere heartfelt gratitude and respect to our
supervisor Dr. Surya Deo Choudhary, Assistant Professor, Dept. of Electrical &
Electronics Engineering, MCE, Motihari for his continuous support, guidance,
valuable suggestions throughout the completion of this project.
Also, we would like to express our gratitude and sincere thanks to Dr. Surya
Deo Choudhary, project coordinator, Assistant Professor, Department of Electrical &
Electronics Engineering. we are greatly indebted to them for their constructive
suggestions and criticism from time to time during the course of progress of our work.
Moreover, we would like to express our gratitude and sincere thanks to Mr.
Kanhaiya Kumar, Head of department, Electrical & Electronics Engineering and
entire faculty who have imparted considerable knowledge to us during our study at
this institution.
We would like to express our gratitude and sincere thanks to Dr. Navneet
Kumar, Principal, MCE Motihari. Who has facilitated opportunity to us during our
study at this institution.
We are also thankful to all our friends and the staff members of the department
of Electrical & Electronics Engineering and to all our well-wishers for their help and
inspiration.
Finally, we express our deepest gratitude to our parents for their continuous
encouragement, understanding and support.
Last but not the least I would like to thank to Almighty ‘GOD’ for
giving me health, strength and perseverance to continue till the end.
Shaanvi Priya
21110113003
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ABSTRACT
This paper present a novel design of single fed dual polarizes , dual band slotted
antenna with right hand circular polarization(RHCP) at GPS L1 and left hand circular
polarization (LHCP) at WLAN which is suitable for hand held devices in application.
Antenna exhibits two independent polarization and works effectively at 1.57542 for
GPS L1. A new form CPW-fed broadband circularly polarized square slot antenna
(CPSSA) with three inverted-L-shape grounded strips around the corners of the slot is
proposed and fabricated. In comparison to the previous CPSSA structures, the axial-
ratio (AR) bandwidth of the antenna is increased, which is two times wider than the
previous proposed design. By embedding the L-shape strip to the ground plane and
using the vertical stub to the feed line, very good axial-ratio bandwidth is obtained.
The measured impedance bandwidth and AR of the realized CPSS antenna with
optimized parameters is from 2 to 7 GHz (3.5:1, 110%) for VSWR<2 and 2–5 GHz
(2.5:1; 85%) for AR<3 dB respectively. Throughout this letter, the improvement
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CONTENTS
Acknowledgments
Abstract
Contents
List of Figure
CHAPTER 1 INTRODUCTION
1.2 Motivation
1.3 Objective
2.1 Background
4.1 Highlight
5.1 Conclusion
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Chapter 1
INTRODUCTION
Microstrip antennas operate based on the principle of fringing fields, where the
electromagnetic waves radiate from the edges of the patch. They are designed for
specific frequencies and are commonly used in applications such as wireless
communication, radar systems, satellite communication, medical devices, and
aerospace technology. Due to their planar nature, they can be easily integrated with
printed circuit boards (PCBs) and other electronic components.
Despite their numerous advantages, microstrip antennas also have some limitations,
such as narrow bandwidth, lower efficiency, and reduced power handling capability.
However, various design techniques, such as the use of multiple layers, slots, or
parasitic elements, can be employed to enhance their performance. As technology
advances, microstrip antennas continue to play a crucial role in modern
communication and sensing systems.
1.2 Motivation
The rapid growth of wireless communication technologies, including
5G, IoT, RFID, and Wi-Fi, demands high-performance antennas with
compact size, wide bandwidth, and high efficiency. Traditional microstrip
antennas suffer from narrow bandwidth, high losses, and complex feeding
structures, limiting their applicability. The Coplanar Waveguide (CPW)-fed
microstrip patch antenna offers a promising solution due to its low loss, easy
integration, and improved impedance matching. Motivated by the need for
efficient, miniaturized, and broadband antennas, this study focuses on
designing and optimizing a CPW-fed microstrip antenna to meet the
challenges of next-generation wireless communication systems.
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1.3 Objective
The primary objective of this study is to design, simulate, fabricate, and analyze a
Coplanar Waveguide (CPW)-fed microstrip patch antenna optimized for modern
wireless communication applications. The specific objectives include:
1. Design and Optimization: Develop a CPW-fed microstrip patch antenna with
enhanced bandwidth, impedance matching, and radiation efficiency.
2. Simulation and Analysis: Use electromagnetic simulation tools (HFSS, CST,
ADS) to analyze antenna performance in terms of S-parameters, gain, and
radiation pattern.
3. Fabrication and Testing: Implement the antenna design using PCB fabrication
techniques and evaluate its performance with a Vector Network Analyzer
(VNA).
4. Performance Improvement: Investigate the impact of substrate material, CPW
feed dimensions, and ground plane modifications on antenna efficiency.
Application Suitability: Ensure the antenna meets the requirements of 5G,
IoT, RFID, UWB, and WLAN applications
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Chapter 2
LITERATUTRE STUDY
-4-
adopted for domestic purpose applications. Photovoltaic cells help to convert the
solar energy into electrical energy or heat energy. This system is mainly of two types
one is line dependent and line independent [1]. The line dependent system is not in
need of batteries for storing energy. It directly supplies the energy to the demand
with the help of an inverter. This line system is also used at times of low sun beam.
The line independent system, as the absence of line electricity batteries or
accumulators are required for supplying energy at times of demand. The dc output
needs to be converted to ac for supplying to electrical appliances. The wind energy is
based on the capacity for producing power.
Comparative Study of CPW-Fed Microstrip Patch Antennas and Other Feeding
Techniques
To understand the advantages and limitations of CPW-fed microstrip patch
antennas, it is essential to compare them with conventional feeding techniques. The
following table provides a comparative analysis of different antenna feeding
methods.
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• Coaxial Probe Feed: Good for low-frequency applications but introduces
radiation loss and design complexity.
• Aperture Coupled Feed: Provides high bandwidth but requires multi-
layered fabrication, increasing cost.
• CPW-Fed Antennas: Offer wider bandwidth, ease of integration, and lower
losses, making them ideal for next-generation wireless applications.
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3. Improved Radiation Efficiency and Gain
Optimized CPW-fed structure minimizes radiation losses and enhances gain (>7
dB).
The antenna provides a stable and omnidirectional radiation pattern, making it
suitable for wireless networks and IoT applications.
4. Simple Fabrication and Easy Integration
Uses single-layer PCB fabrication, reducing manufacturing complexity and cost.
Compatible with Monolithic Microwave Integrated Circuits (MMICs), enabling
integration with modern RF front-end modules.
5. Versatility for Multi-Band and UWB Applications
The design supports multi-band operation, making it applicable for 5G, Wi-Fi, IoT,
RFID, and UWB communication.
Can be further enhanced using metamaterials or defected ground structures (DGS)
for even broader bandwidth.
6. Future Scalability and Adaptability
The proposed solution can be adapted for flexible and wearable electronics, making
it suitable for next-generation smart devices and biomedical applications.
Offers potential modifications for beam-steering and frequency reconfigurability,
meeting the needs of advanced wireless systems.
• Coaxial Probe Feed (Good for impedance matching but increases design
complexity).
• Aperture Coupled Feed (Provides high bandwidth but requires multilayer
fabrication).
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• Coplanar Waveguide (CPW) Feed (Offers wide bandwidth, low loss, and
easy integration).
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Chapter 3
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2.Substrate (Dielectric Layer)
3.Ground Plane
4.Feed Mechanism
5.Matching Network
The patch is the most critical component of a microstrip antenna, as it is the primary
radiating element. It is a thin, flat conductor (usually made of copper or gold) placed
on top of a dielectric substrate. The patch's shape, size, and material determine the
antenna's operating frequency, bandwidth, radiation pattern, and efficiency. The patch
is the heart of a microstrip antenna. It is responsible for radiating electromagnetic
waves when excited by a feed mechanism. The patch is typically rectangular, but it
can also be circular, triangular, or other shapes, depending on the application.
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2. Substrate (Dielectric Layer)
o High εr (>6): Reduces antenna size but increases losses and decreases
efficiency.
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3.Ground Plane
The ground plane in a microstrip antenna plays a crucial role in determining
the antenna's performance, including impedance matching, radiation
efficiency, bandwidth, and gain. Here are some key aspects to consider:
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6. Common Ground Plane Materials
Copper (Cu)
Aluminum (Al)
Silver (Ag) – expensive but highly conductive
Wireless Frequency Band & Ground Plane Considerations
4. Feed Mechanism
The feed mechanism in a microstrip patch antenna is crucial for transferring power
from the transmission line to the radiating patch.
Contacting Feed Mechanisms (Direct Connection)
Microstrip Line Feed
• A microstrip line is directly connected to the patch.
• Simple design, easy to fabricate but limited bandwidth.
• Used in Wi-Fi, IoT, and PCB-based antennas.
Coaxial (Probe) Feed
• Uses a coaxial cable where the inner conductor connects to the patch.
• Good impedance matching, but difficult to fabricate.
• Used in GPS, RFID, and compact antennas.
• Non-Contacting Feed Mechanisms (Electromagnetic Coupling)
Aperture-Coupled Feed
• A slot in the ground plane couples energy from the feed line to the patch.
• High bandwidth, less interference, but complex fabrication.
• Used in high-frequency and satellite antennas.
Proximity-Coupled Feed
• The feed line is placed below the patch with a dielectric layer in between.
• High efficiency, wide bandwidth, but difficult to manufacture.
• Used in broadband, 5G, and high-performance antennas.
• Aperture Coupled Feed:
• Uses electromagnetic coupling through a slot in the ground plane between
two dielectric substrates.
• Provides good isolation and polarization purity.
• Proximity Coupled Feed:
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• Coupling occurs between the feed line and the patch without direct contact,
using two dielectric substrates.
• Offers high bandwidth and reduces spurious radiation.
Purpose:
The feed mechanism's primary role is to efficiently deliver RF power to the
microstrip patch, enabling it to radiate electromagnetic waves.
It also plays a key role in impedance matching, ensuring maximum power
transfer.
5. Matching Network
A matching network is a circuit that ensures maximum power transfer between the
feed line and the microstrip patch antenna by minimizing impedance mismatch. The
goal is to match the antenna impedance (usually not exactly 50Ω) with the feed line
impedance (typically 50Ω for RF systems).
A matching network in a microstrip patch antenna is an optional circuit used to
improve impedance matching between the antenna and the feed line (typically 50
ohms). Proper impedance matching ensures maximum power transfer and minimizes
reflection losses (measured as return loss or S11).
Importance of Impedance Matching
• Prevents Signal Reflection (Reduces Voltage Standing Wave Ratio, VSWR).
• Maximizes Radiation Efficiency.
• Improves Bandwidth and Performance.
Why Matching Networks Are Necessary:
Impedance Mismatch:
Microstrip antennas often have an input impedance that differs from the
standard impedance of transmission lines (typically 50 ohms).
This mismatch leads to reflected power, reducing the antenna's efficiency.
Maximum Power Transfer:
A matching network transforms the antenna's impedance to match the
transmission line's impedance, minimizing reflections and maximizing power
transfer.
Common Matching Network Techniques:
Lumped Element Matching:
Uses inductors and capacitors (L and C) to create matching circuits.
"L," "T," and "Pi" network configurations are commonly employed.
Suitable for lower frequencies.
Distributed Matching:
Uses transmission line sections, such as stubs and quarter-wave transformers,
to achieve impedance matching.
Effective at higher frequencies where lumped elements become less practical.
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Inset Feed:
A technique where the feed line is inserted into the patch antenna.
By adjusting the inset depth and width, the antenna's input impedance can be
controlled.
Stubs:
Short circuited, or open circuited transmission line sections, that are
connected to the main feed line. They provide reactance, and can be used to
tune the impedance.
Key Considerations:
Bandwidth:
Matching networks can affect the antenna's bandwidth.
Broadband matching techniques are used when a wide operating frequency
range is required.
Frequency:
The choice of matching technique depends on the operating frequency.
Lumped elements are typically used at lower frequencies, while distributed
techniques are preferred at higher frequencies.
Losses:
Matching networks can introduce losses, reducing the overall antenna
efficiency.
Careful design and component selection are crucial to minimize losses.
In essence, the matching network is a critical component in microstrip
antenna systems, ensuring optimal performance by minimizing reflections
and maximizing power transfer.
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The transmission line's primary function is to deliver the RF (radio frequency) signal
from the source to the radiating patch of the microstrip antenna.
This connection is crucial for the antenna to function.
Impedance Matching:
A key aspect of the transmission line is its role in impedance matching.
Effective power transfer requires that the impedance of the transmission line matches
the impedance of both the RF source and the antenna patch.
Characteristic Impedance:
The characteristic impedance of the transmission line is a critical parameter. It
influences the power transfer efficiency.
Feed Techniques:
Different feeding techniques, such as microstrip line feed, coaxial probe feed,
aperture coupling, and proximity coupling, involve variations in how the
transmission line connects to the patch.1
Each technique has its own advantages and disadvantages.
Transmission Line Model:
The "transmission line model" is a way to analyze the microstrip patch antenna. In
this model, the patch itself can be viewed as a section of a transmission line.
This model helps in understanding the resonance of the patch.
In essence:
The transmission line in a microstrip antenna is not just a simple conductor; it's a
carefully designed element that plays a vital role in efficient signal delivery and
impedance matching.
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The transmission line of a microstrip antenna is a key element that connects the feed
network (like a coaxial cable or microstrip line) to the antenna element (patch). It
plays a critical role in guiding and delivering the radio frequency (RF) signal from
the source (transmitter or receiver) to the patch, ensuring efficient power transfer,
impedance matching, and minimal signal loss. The microstrip transmission line itself
is a structure consisting of a conducting strip on top of a dielectric substrate with a
ground plane beneath it.
The functions of the components of the Circuit Diagram are as
follows:
3.2.1 Patch
How Patch Work?
The patch in a microstrip antenna plays a crucial role in the antenna’s ability to
radiate electromagnetic waves. It is the radiating element of the antenna, typically
designed as a metallic surface that is placed on top of a dielectric substrate. The
patch works by generating an electromagnetic field when it is fed with an alternating
current (AC) signal at a specific frequency. Here's how the patch works in a
microstrip antenna:
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When the patch is fed at its resonant frequency, it radiates electromagnetic waves
effectively. At other frequencies, radiation efficiency drops significantly, and the
antenna performs poorly.
3. Current Distribution on the Patch
The currents on the surface of the patch are not uniformly distributed. They tend to
concentrate near the edges and corners of the patch. The exact distribution depends
on the shape and feeding mechanism of the patch.
For example, a rectangular patch has a current distribution where the strongest
currents are along the center of the patch and along the edges.
The electric field in the patch corresponds to the surface current distribution, and the
magnetic field is generated around the edges of the patch.
4. Radiation Mechanism
The radiation occurs as the time-varying currents on the patch generate
electromagnetic waves that propagate outward.
The patch itself does not emit radiation like an antenna with a dipole element.
Instead, it behaves more like a slot antenna where the radiation is due to the
interaction between the electric and magnetic fields generated by the current on the
patch.
The ground plane beneath the dielectric substrate helps to reflect the energy that is
radiated by the patch, effectively creating a mirror image of the patch's radiation.
This reflection allows the antenna to radiate more efficiently in a particular direction
(usually in the broadside direction).
5. Radiation Pattern
The shape and size of the patch determine the radiation pattern of the antenna. For
example:
A square or rectangular patch typically has a broadside radiation pattern, meaning it
radiates mainly in the direction normal to the surface of the patch.
A circular patch might produce a more omnidirectional pattern.
The patch's dimensions and feed location can be adjusted to control the beamwidth,
polarization, and gain of the antenna.
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3.2.2 Substrates
Wind energy system can be one of the most cost-effective home-based renewable
energy systems. Depending on your wind resource, a small wind energy system can
lower your electricity bill slightly or up to 100%, help you avoid the high costs of
extending utility power line to remote locations, and sometimes can provide DC or
off-grid power. In addition, wind energy is clean, indigenous, renewable energy.
Working of Substrates:
The patch in a microstrip antenna plays a crucial role in the antenna’s ability to radiate
electromagnetic waves. It is the radiating element of the antenna, typically designed
as a metallic surface that is placed on top of a dielectric substrate. The patch works by
generating an electromagnetic field when it is fed with an alternating current (AC)
signal at a specific frequency. Here's how the patch works in a microstrip antenna:
The patch acts as a resonator that responds to the RF signal fed into it. When an RF
signal (alternating current) is applied to the patch through the feed mechanism (e.g.,
coaxial probe, microstrip line), it creates a time-varying current on the surface of the
patch.
These time-varying currents generate oscillating electric and magnetic fields, which in
turn propagate as electromagnetic waves away from the antenna into space.
The patch operates at its resonant frequency, which is determined by its physical
dimensions. Typically, the length of the patch is about half the wavelength (λ/2) of the
signal in the dielectric material.
Resonance occurs when the length of the patch corresponds to half the wavelength of
the signal, causing constructive interference and efficient radiation.
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When the patch is fed at its resonant frequency, it radiates electromagnetic waves
effectively. At other frequencies, radiation efficiency drops significantly, and the
antenna performs poorly.
The currents on the surface of the patch are not uniformly distributed. They tend to
concentrate near the edges and corners of the patch. The exact distribution depends on
the shape and feeding mechanism of the patch.
For example, a rectangular patch has a current distribution where the strongest currents
are along the center of the patch and along the edges.
The electric field in the patch corresponds to the surface current distribution, and the
magnetic field is generated around the edges of the patch.
4. Radiation Mechanism
The patch itself does not emit radiation like an antenna with a dipole element. Instead,
it behaves more like a slot antenna where the radiation is due to the interaction between
the electric and magnetic fields generated by the current on the patch.
The ground plane beneath the dielectric substrate helps to reflect the energy that is
radiated by the patch, effectively creating a mirror image of the patch's radiation. This
reflection allows the antenna to radiate more efficiently in a particular direction
(usually in the broadside direction).
Radiates electromagnetic waves: The patch acts as the radiating element that
converts the RF signal into electromagnetic radiation.
Resonates at a specific frequency: The length of the patch is designed to match half
the wavelength of the operating frequency, ensuring efficient radiation.
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Current distribution: The current distribution on the patch is non-uniform and
concentrated at the edges, contributing to the radiated field.
Impedance matching: The patch ensures proper impedance matching with the feed
line, maximizing power transfer.
Controls radiation pattern: The shape and size of the patch influence the
directionality and characteristics of the radiated signal.
Polarization: The patch typically radiates linearly polarized waves, with the
possibility of achieving circular or dual polarization depending on design
modifications.
Bandwidth control: The design of the patch and substrate influences the antenna's
bandwidth, which can be tailored for specific applications.
The primary role of the substrate is to provide physical support to the radiating patch
and ground plane. The substrate material holds the patch and ground plane together,
and it allows for the creation of a planar antenna structure, which is lightweight,
compact, and easy to manufacture.
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The substrate must be rigid and stable to maintain the mechanical integrity of the
antenna, especially in practical applications where the antenna will be subject to
physical forces or vibrations.
The dielectric constant (also known as the relative permittivity, denoted as εr) of the
substrate material plays a key role in controlling the propagation speed of the
electromagnetic waves within the antenna.
When an electromagnetic wave propagates through the substrate, it moves slower than
it would in free space. This slowing of the wave is due to the material's dielectric
properties, which depend on the substrate's dielectric constant εr.
By controlling the dielectric constant of the substrate, the size of the antenna can be
adjusted. A higher dielectric constant results in a smaller antenna because it decreases
the effective wavelength within the substrate. The effective speed of the wave in the
substrate is slower than in air, and this affects the effective wavelength of the signal.
The effective wavelength λ_eff inside the substrate is shorter than the wavelength in
free space, and it’s given by:
where:
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3. Determining the Patch Size
The size of the patch is primarily determined by the resonant frequency of the antenna,
which depends on the effective wavelength within the substrate. Since the wavelength
in the substrate is shorter than in free space, the patch can be made smaller than it
would be for a resonant frequency in free space.
The length of the patch is typically about half of the effective wavelength (λ_eff/2) in
the dielectric material. The width of the patch, especially in rectangular or square
designs, also plays a role in the overall resonance and radiation characteristics.
4. Impedance Matching
The substrate also affects the impedance of the microstrip antenna. The impedance of
the antenna needs to be matched to the feed line (microstrip feed, coaxial probe, etc.)
for maximum power transfer.
The height of the substrate (distance between the patch and the ground plane) and the
dielectric constant influence the impedance and the antenna's resonant frequency. In
general:
A thicker substrate will result in a lower impedance, which can help in matching the
feed impedance with the antenna.
The dielectric constant and thickness together determine the characteristic impedance
of the microstrip line and help ensure that the antenna operates efficiently.
5. Bandwidth Control
The thickness of the substrate and the dielectric constant are important factors in
determining the bandwidth of the antenna. The thicker substrates typically provide
wider bandwidths because they help reduce surface wave losses.
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Thin substrates tend to have narrower bandwidths because they allow the surface
waves to propagate more easily, leading to higher radiation losses at frequencies away
from the resonant frequency.
The loss tangent (tan δ) of the substrate material also plays a role in the bandwidth. A
low loss tangent (high-quality dielectric material) will reduce energy losses, leading to
a broader bandwidth and higher radiation efficiency.
Physical Support: Holds the patch and ground plane in place, ensuring mechanical
integrity.
Dielectric Control: The dielectric constant (εr) of the substrate determines the speed
and effective wavelength of the signal, which directly influences the size of the patch.
Impedance Matching: The substrate's thickness and dielectric properties help match
the impedance of the feedline to the patch, ensuring maximum power transfer.
Bandwidth Control: The thickness and dielectric constant affect the antenna's
bandwidth; thicker substrates often result in wider bandwidth.
Reducing Losses: The substrate material with a low loss tangent reduces energy losses
and improves efficiency.
Miniaturization: High dielectric constant substrates allow for smaller antenna designs
without compromising performance.
Environmental Protection: The substrate protects the patch from physical and
environmental damage, increasing antenna longevity and reliability.
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3.2.3 Ground plane
In a microstrip antenna, the ground plane plays a crucial role in shaping the antenna's
performance by influencing its radiation characteristics and overall efficiency. The
ground plane is a conducting surface (typically made of metal) placed beneath the
dielectric substrate, opposite the radiating patch. It helps to complete the antenna's
design by reflecting and guiding the electromagnetic waves in a controlled way.
WORKING OF Ground Plane:
1. Reflects and Directs Radiation
The ground plane functions as a reflector for the electromagnetic waves generated by
the patch. Without the ground plane, much of the energy radiated by the patch would
be wasted, and the antenna's efficiency would decrease.
The patch radiates electromagnetic energy primarily in the broadside direction, which
is normal to the surface of the patch. The ground plane reflects the energy that is
directed toward it back into space, helping focus and direct the radiation toward the
desired direction.
Essentially, the ground plane acts like a mirror, ensuring that the radiation pattern of
the antenna is more directed and efficient.
2. Forms a Radiating Structure
The ground plane helps to create a half-wave resonator for the antenna system. The
patch alone is not enough to radiate efficiently; it requires the ground plane to act as
the other half of the antenna's structure.
The ground plane, in combination with the patch, forms a voltage distribution in the
antenna system that is crucial for radiation. The current flowing in the patch induces a
corresponding voltage on the ground plane, leading to efficient radiation.
3. Establishes the Effective Aperture
The size and shape of the ground plane influence the effective aperture of the antenna,
which determines the antenna's gain. A larger ground plane can provide more effective
radiation, leading to higher gain. Conversely, a smaller ground plane can restrict the
radiation pattern and decrease the gain.
The size of the ground plane also affects the radiation pattern. In some designs, the
ground plane may extend beyond the edges of the patch to modify the radiation pattern
or improve impedance matching.
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4. Impacts the Impedance Matching
The ground plane helps in the impedance matching of the microstrip antenna. The
combination of the patch, substrate, and ground plane determines the impedance of the
antenna, typically around 50 ohms, which is ideal for maximum power transfer.
The distance between the patch and the ground plane (i.e., the substrate height) plays
a significant role in impedance matching. A thicker substrate (larger distance between
patch and ground) leads to a lower impedance, while a thinner substrate results in
higher impedance.
By appropriately adjusting the substrate height and ground plane size, the impedance
of the antenna can be tuned to match the feedline, reducing reflection and increasing
efficiency.
5. Ground Plane in Different Types of Microstrip Antennas
In some designs, such as monopole or slot antennas, the ground plane also serves as
part of the radiating structure. For example, in a monopole microstrip antenna, the
ground plane acts as the other half of the antenna, similar to the way a dipole works.
For a slot antenna, the ground plane has slots cut into it to create a specific radiation
pattern or achieve other desired radiation characteristics.
10. Prevents Interference and Noise
The ground plane also helps in shielding the patch from external electrical interference
or noise, improving the antenna's signal-to-noise ratio (SNR). It can prevent unwanted
signals from reaching the radiating patch or causing spurious emissions.
Summary of the Role of the Ground Plane in a Microstrip Antenna:
Reflects and directs radiation: The ground plane reflects energy from the patch,
improving radiation efficiency and directing the radiation pattern.
- 26 -
Figure 3.7: Ground plane
There are several types of feed mechanisms used in microstrip antennas, each with its
own advantages and applications. Here's an overview of how the feed mechanism
works in a microstrip antenna:
- 27 -
2. Coaxial Probe Feed:
Structure: In this method, a coaxial cable is used to feed the RF signal to the microstrip
patch antenna. The central conductor of the coaxial cable is connected to the patch,
while the outer conductor (shield) is connected to the ground plane.
Working: The RF signal is fed through the central conductor of the coaxial cable into
the patch, exciting the antenna. The coaxial probe typically penetrates the substrate, so
it feeds the patch from below the substrate. The size and position of the probe are
chosen carefully to ensure impedance matching between the feed and the patch.
Advantages: Simple to design and easy to integrate into existing systems, provides
good impedance matching, and allows for easy control of feed location.
Disadvantages: The insertion of the probe can cause some disturbance in the radiation
pattern and efficiency if not placed carefully.
3. Microstrip Line Feed:
Structure: In this type of feed, a microstrip transmission line (a flat conductor) is used
to feed the RF signal directly to the edge of the patch. The microstrip feed line runs on
the same substrate as the antenna and connects the patch at one edge.
Working: The microstrip transmission line carries the signal to the antenna patch. The
feed line is usually located at the edge of the patch or sometimes at the center,
depending on the design requirements. The width of the feed line is adjusted for
impedance matching with the antenna.
Advantages: This type of feed is simple and cost-effective to implement. It can also be
designed to achieve good impedance matching and broadband performance.
Disadvantages: The impedance matching and the radiation pattern might be affected
by the feed line's position and the dimensions of the microstrip feed.
4. Aperture Coupled Feed:
Structure: In this feed type, the RF signal is coupled from a microstrip feed line to the
antenna patch through an aperture in the ground plane. The feed line is placed on one
side of the substrate, and the signal is transmitted to the patch through the aperture.
Working: The microstrip feed line is placed on one side of the dielectric substrate, and
a small hole or aperture is made in the ground plane. The signal from the feed line
passes through this aperture and couples to the patch, exciting the antenna.
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Advantages: The aperture-coupled feed provides improved isolation between the feed
line and the radiating patch, reducing spurious radiation. It also helps in achieving
better impedance matching.
Disadvantages: The design is more complex compared to other feeds, and it requires
careful tuning of the aperture size and position to ensure proper coupling.
5. Edge Coupled Feed:
Structure: This feed mechanism uses the edge coupling technique, where the
microstrip feed line is placed parallel to the edge of the patch. The feed line can be
placed directly adjacent to the patch, with the signal being coupled through the edge
of the patch.
Working: The edge of the patch is coupled with the microstrip feed line, which excites
the patch. The coupling between the feed line and the patch is controlled by the
separation distance and orientation of the feed line relative to the patch.
Advantages: The edge-coupled feed allows for direct coupling of the signal to the
patch, providing efficient signal transfer and impedance matching.
Disadvantages: The main disadvantage is the sensitivity to misalignment, which can
affect the impedance matching and performance. It is also more susceptible to
radiation losses if not properly designed.
Coaxial Probe Feed: Directly feeds RF signal from the coaxial cable into the patch,
providing good impedance matching but can affect radiation patterns if not placed
properly.
Microstrip Line Feed: Uses a microstrip transmission line to feed the RF signal directly
to the patch, easy to integrate, and provides good matching.
Aperture Coupled Feed: Couples the feed signal through an aperture in the ground
plane, providing better isolation between the feed and patch, but more complex.
Edge Coupled Feed: Directly couples the feed signal into the patch edge, efficient but
sensitive to misalignment.
Waveguide Feed: Uses a waveguide for high-frequency applications, providing high
power handling but is more complex to design.
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3.2 Working Process Summary
Feed signal input: The RF signal is introduced to the patch through a feed
mechanism, such as a coaxial probe or a microstrip line.
Excitation of patch: The signal causes an electric current to flow on the surface of the
metal patch, exciting the patch.
Resonance and radiation: The patch radiates electromagnetic waves when it
reaches its resonant frequency. The frequency of radiation depends on the patch's
dimensions.
Ground plane reflection: The ground plane below the substrate reflects the waves,
helping in the formation of the radiation pattern.
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Chapter 4
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
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4.2 Key Parameter and Simulation
For a typical microstrip antenna designed for band 1 starting from 1.37ghz to
1.78ghz (commonly used in WLAN and IEEE 802.11 applications), the
following results might be observed from simulation (using tools, CST Suite
Studio):
Return Loss: A return loss of around -10 dB at the resonant frequency, which
indicates good impedance matching and minimal reflection.
Gain: The antenna might show a gain of around 6-8 dB for this specific design.
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S11 Parameter
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VSWR GRAPH
DIRECTIVE GAIN
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Chapter 5
5.1 Conclusion
The novel structure of microstrip patch antenna is successfully designed for
GPS L1 band IEEE 802.114 WLAN application. The measured result
displays that the designed proposed antenna will be able to function
efficiently from the frequency range of 1.37-1.78 GHz and 3.90-5.28 Ghz
respectively with resonating frequency 1.57542 GHz and 5.2 GHz
respectively.
In addition , this antenna has a key features of such as small size, bandwidth
and effective structure of feeding , low cost , which makes this suitable for
the automotive application
5.2 Future Scope of Microstrip Patch Antennas for Wireless Applications
Microstrip patch antennas (MPAs) are continuously evolving to meet the growing
demands of wireless technologies. Below are key future trends and potential
advancements in wireless applications:
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Applications: Smart homes, healthcare wearables, RFID, Industry 4.0.
5.3 Reference:
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