Wideband and Wide Scan Phased Array Microstrip Patch Antennas for Small Platforms

The paper presents an overview of research results from FOI on wideband and wide angular coverage, phased array microstrip patch antennas. The research has been motivated by their potential use in future applications in radar, multi- band satellite communication, electronic warfare, and multifunction systems. The paper presents the design and experimental evaluation of planar and faceted conformal antenna arrays using rectangular patch and bowtie microstrip elements. Both types can be designed for wide bandwidth and low weight using low cost PCB-technology. The array performance has been modelled using infinite array approximations and small finite arrays with Ansoft HFSS and an in-house developed FDTD code. The array designs have been experimentally characterized regarding circuit properties, such as active reflection coefficient, and radiation properties, including active element patterns and embedded array gain.