A segmented periodic slot array leaky‐wave antenna for beamforming applications

Abstract

A segmented periodic slot array leaky‐wave antenna (LWA) is proposed for beamforming applications. The LWA consists of segments, each with a unique propagation constant achieved through varying periodicity and slot size. By using segments with different propagation constants, the proposed LWA can achieve beamforming such as flat‐top beams and side‐lobe level (SLL) reduction. The LWA is based on a substrate‐integrated waveguide with periodic double transverse slots in the broad wall of the waveguide. The double slots allow for reflection‐canceling to suppress the broadside stopband and hence can achieve beamforming capabilities in the backward, broadside, and forward directions. Full‐wave simulations are used to demonstrate the proposed concept for flat‐top beamforming in the mm‐wave band at 30 GHz. Experimental demonstration is conducted using two prototypes for flat‐top beams and SLL reduction, with good agreement with full‐wave simulations.