Parasitic subarray combining coplanar and multi-layer geometries

A parasitic subarray configuration (for microstrip antenna design) combining coplanar and multilayer geometries is proposed. The role of the parasitic patches is to capture and redirect the energy radiated by the fed patch to enhance the radiation in the desired direction, usually broadside. Since it has been demonstrated that both coplanar and multilayered parasitic patches can perform this task, the idea of combining the two geometries in a design naturally arises. A two-layer configuration consisting of two coplanar crosses is shown. The patterns and gain of a two-layer cross are estimated, and preliminary experimental results are discussed.<>