Design of printed log-periodic antennas for long range communication modules: preliminary simulation results

Starting by the general procedure for designing the traditional log-periodic dipole antennas made of metallic rods in free space a new procedure to design printed log-periodic antennas is derived and discussed. In the paper, particular focus is given to the design of log-dipole printed antennas to be used in long range communication modules for wireless sensor networks, but the procedure can be easily extended to other frequency bands. Starting from a preliminary set of simulations, some criteria are derived, that can help to quickly synthesize a new printed antenna. An example of a designed antenna is presented. Results, although preliminary, show the effectiveness and the reliability of the new method.