A hexagonal antenna array prototype for adaptive system application

Adaptive antennas arrays have been recognized as an excellent method to improve the performance of the next generation of wireless communication systems. This work describes the optimization of a novel array prototype with seven patch elements in a hexagonal arrangement. With this structure it is possible to configure the radiation pattern to obtain directional patterns with high directivity and gain. An electromagnetic simulation tool, ZELAND IE3D, was used to evaluate and optimize the antenna array design for applications at 1.9 GHz. The preliminary return loss measurements indicate that this hexagonal arrangement is suitable for wireless communications applications.