Performances of Magneto-Electric Dipoles in an Antennas Array with a Reduced Beam Forming Network

Abstract

In this paper, we propose an architecture of array based on parasitic element antennas with multiple excitations. The objective is to improve the directivity of these antenna arrays using Magneto-Electric Dipoles (MED). In this contribution, we consider a 49 (7 X 7) element array with only 8% of the elements directly fed. The others are fed by couplings and they are loaded on reactive values (ideally). The proposed radiating element is compared to a stacked patch design in the same reduced feed network configuration. A maximum directivity of 20 dBi is obtained, allowing several reconfigurable antenna scenarios based on such as design.

Reactively Loaded Dielectric-Based Antenna Arrays With Enhanced Bandwidth and Flat-Top Radiation Pattern Characteristics

“…Although active antenna arrays provide maximum performance flexibility, the relevant costs of implementation and the required power levels are prohibitive for most practical applications, even when arrays of moderate size are considered [3]. In order to deal with these limitations, various antenna array design architectures were proposed [4]- [13].…”

“…In [10]- [12], the radiated beam of waveguide antenna arrays is shaped by reactive loading of parasitic waveguiding elements. In a more recent study [13], complex magneto-electric dipoles have been used to enhance the antenna directivity.…”