Microstrip Patch Array Antenna Technology for 122 GHz ISM Sensing Applications

Two different patch antenna arrays suitable for next generation sensing applications are presented on this paper. The antennas presented follow a low-cost design approach for their use in different commercial applications in the 122 GHz ISM band. Performance of both antennas is also compared. The serial configuration can be used as a scan-capable phased array. The planar structures are implemented on commercial RF Rogers substrate and are characterized using a WR6 waveguide to microstrip transition to allow repeatable and easy measurements. Results of radiation patterns and return loss are presented, showing a good matching and a good agreement between measurement and simulation. Gain for the arrays are between 5 dBi for the corporate version and 6 dBi in the case of the column. Bandwidth measured is more than 5 GHz, enough for future sensing applications in the 122 GHz ISM band.