Optimization of tapered slot Vivaldi antenna for UWB application

The paper deals with the optimization of the Vivaldi antenna, which is suitable for the measurement of impulse radiation characteristics. In case of particular ultra wideband applications (i.e. radar, positioning, etc.), it is crucial to know the transient responses of antennas. The optimization process searches for the Vivaldi antenna shape. The optimization accomplishes three required parameters — good matching, minimal distortion and smaller antenna dimensions. The parametric study and the manual step-by-step method were used in the process of antenna optimization. The main part of the paper presents the impulse distortion minimization by the feeding transition and the overall obtained results, which are compared with measured characteristics.