Design and Analysis of an Inset Feed X-Band

Microstrip Patch Antenna

A Project and Thesis submitted in partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the Award of Degree of
Bachelor of Science in Electrical and Electronic Engineering
By
Name: Md. Nahid Hasan
(ID #:172-33-4187)

Name: Ripon PK.

(ID #: 172-33-4174)

Name: Md. Abrar Mohasin

(ID#:172-33-4152)

Supervised by
Md. Ashraful Haque
Assistant Professor

DEPARTMENT OF ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING

FACULTY OF ENGINEERING
DAFFODIL INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY
27th June 2021
 Daffodil International University
27th June 2021

Certification
This is to certify that the thesis entitled, “Design and Analysis of an Inset Feed X Band
Microstrip Patch Antenna” submitted by Md. Nahid Hasan, Ripon PK. & Md. Abrar
Mohasin in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the award of Bachelor of Science
Degree in ELECTRICAL AND ELECTRONIC ENGINEERING at the Daffodil
International university, Ashulia is an authentic work carried out by him under my
supervision and guidance. To the best of my/our knowledge, the matter embodied in the
thesis has not been submitted to any other University/ Institute for the award of any degree or
diploma.

Signature of the candidates

_____________________
Name: Md. Nahid Hasan
ID #: 172-33-4187

________________________
Name: Ripon PK.
ID #: 172-33-4174

© Daffodil International University P a g e | ii

Name: Md. Abrar Mohasin
ID #: 172-33-4152

_______________________
Md. Ashraful Haque
Assistant Professor
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering
Faculty of Science and Engineering
Daffodil International University.

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 BOARD OF EXAMINERS

____________________________
Dr. Mohammad Tawhidul Alam Chairman
Associate Professor
Department of EEE, DIU

____________________________
Mst. Shamima Hossain Internal Member
Lecturer
Department of EEE, DIU

____________________________
Mr. Asif Hassan Internal Member
Lecturer
Department of EEE, DIU

____________________________
Dr. M. Abdur Razzak External Member
Professor
Department of EEE, IUT

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Dedicated to

Our Parents

© Daffodil International University Page|v

 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
LIST OF FIGURES viii
LIST OF TABLES X
LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS Xi
LIST OF SYMBOLS Xii
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS Xiii
ABSTRACT xiv

Chapter-1 Introduction 1-7

1.1 Introduction 1
1.2 Background 2
1.3 Literature Review 3
1.4 Aim and Objectives 5
1.5 Methodology 6
1.6 Thesis Orientation 6

Chapter-2 Literature Reviews 8-23

2.1 Antenna Parameters 8

2.1.1 Antenna Field of Regions 8
2.1.2 Radiation Pattern 10
2.1.3 Directive Gain 11
2.1.4 Directivity 11
2.1.5 Antenna Efficiency 12
2.1.6 Antenna Gain 12

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2.1.7 Voltage Standing Wave Ratio 12
2.1.8 Return Loss/ S11 Parameter 13
2.1.9 Input Impedance 14
2.2 Introduction of Microstrip Patch Antenna 14
2.2.1 Advantage and Disadvantage 17
2.3 Basic Principle of Operation 18
2.4 Feeding Technique 19
2.4.1 Microstrip Line 19
2.4.2 Coaxial Feed 20
2.4.3 Aperture Couple Feed 21
2.4.4 Proximity Couple Feed 21
2.5 Feed Point Location 22
2.5.1 Polarization 23

Chapter- 3 DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED PATCH 24-39

ANTENNA
3.1 Basic Parameters 24
3.2 Substrate Selection 25
3.3 Microstrip Patch Antenna Dimension 26
3.4 Design of RMAP 29
3.5 Optimization 32

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Chapter-4 Result and Analysis 40-56

4.1 Result and Discussion of The Proposed Antenna Using Ansys 40

HFSS
4.1.1 Average Current Distribution 41
4.1.2 Vector Current Distribution 44
4.1.3 2D Radiation Pattern 47
4.1.4 3D Radiation Pattern 49
4.2 Simulated Result of The Proposed Antenna Using CST 53
Microwave Studio

Chapter- 5 Conclusion & Future Works 57-58

5.1 Major Contributions of the Thesis 57

5.2 Future Scope of Work 58

References…………………………………………………….…………59-60

LIST OF FIGURS

Figure No Figure Name Page

2.1(a) Antenna Radiation flow 9
2.1(b) Field Regions 10
2.1(c) Radiation pattern 11
2.2(a) Patch antenna 15
2.2(b) Different shapes of Patch elements 16
2.3(a) A Side view of Microstrip Patch Antenna 18

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2.4(a) Microstrip line feed. 19
2.4(b) Probe-fed patch antenna. 20
2.4(c) Aperture-Coupled Feed 21
2.4(d) Proximity Coupled Feed 22
3.3(a) Microstrip Patch Antenna Dimension 26
3.3(b) Microstrip Patch Antenna Dimension 27
3.4 (a) 2.4 GHz WiFi band Microstrip Patch Antenna 29
3.4 (b) S11 Parameter of 2.4 GHz WiFi band MPA 30
3.4 (c) Designed Simple Rectangular MPA 31
3.4 (d) S11 parameter of designed Rectangular MPA 32
3.5 (a) Dimension sweep of the inset 33
3.5 (b) Variation of partial ground plane length 33
3.5 (c) Resulted design after introduction of inset and partial ground 34
3.5 (d) S11 parameter after introduction of inset and partial ground 35
3.5 (e) Dimensions of substrate, patch and feedline of the proposed X 36
band MPA
3.5 (f) Partial ground dimension of the proposed X band MPA 37
3.5 (g) Simulated 3D view of the proposed MPA in Ansys HFSS 38
3.5 (h) Return loss of the proposed X band MPA 38
3.5 (i) VSWR of the proposed X band Antenna 39
4.1(a) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 4.88 GHz 41
4.1(b) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 8.45 GHz 42
4.1(c) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz 42
4.1(d) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 13.17 GHz 43
4.1(e) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz 43
4.1(f) Vector current distribution of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz 44
4.1(g) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 8.45 GHz 45
4.1(h) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz 45
4.1(i) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 13.17 GHz 46
4.1(j) Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz 46
4.1(k) Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz 47
4.1(l) Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz 48

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4.1(m) Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz 48
4.1(n) 3D Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz 49
4.1(o) 3D Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 8.45 GHz 50
4.1(p) 3D Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz 50
4.1(q) Directivity(3D) of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz 51
4.1(r) Directivity(3D) of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz 52
4.1(s) Directivity(3D) of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz 52
4.2(a) Simulated 3D view of proposed MPA using CST 53
4.2(b) S11 parameter of proposed MPA using CST 54
4.2(c) VSWR of proposed MPA using CST 54
4.2(d) Comparison of simulated S11 Parameter using HFSS and CST 55

List of Tables

Table No Name of the Table

2.1 Comparison between Different Feeding Techniques 23
3.5 Dimensions of the Proposed X band MPA 37
Comparison of the simulated results using Ansys HFSS and
4.2.1 56
CST Studio Suite
Comparison between proposed design and references based
4.2.2 56
relevant works

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 LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS

RMPA Rectangular Microstrip Patch Antenna

MPA Microstrip Patch Antenna
GHz Giga Hertz
EM Electro-Magnetic
GPS Global Positioning System
Wi-Fi Wireless Fidelity
WLAN Wireless Local Area Network
RF Radio Frequency
VSWR Voltage Stanting Wave Ratio
PCB Printed Circuit Board
MP Microstrip Patch
WiMAX Worldwide Interoperability for Microwave Access
RFID Radio Frequency Identification
MIMO Multiple Input Multiple Output
MHz Mega Hertz
NASA National Aeronautics and Space Administration
2D Two Dimensional
3D Three Dimensional
Dg Directivity Gain
Rp Radiation Intensity for Particular Angle of Antenna
Ra Average Radiation Intensity
Bw Bandwidth
Fu Upper Frequency
Fl Lower Frequency
Fc Center Frequency
RL Return Loss

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 LIST OF SYMBOLS

λ Wavelength
π Pie
f Frequency
c Speed of light
Γ Reflection coefficient
ρ Magnitude coefficient
R Resistance
L Inductance
C Capacitance
G Conductance
Z0 Impedance
εr Relative dielectric constant
Effective dielectric constant
tanδ Loss tangent
h Height
fr Resonant frequency
V0 Velocity of light
𝐿𝑒𝑓𝑓 Effective length
𝜑 Angle
W Width

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 ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

I express our sincere gratitude and indebtedness to the thesis supervisor Md. Ashraful
Haque, for his initiative in this field of research, for his valuable guidance, encouragement
and affection for the successful completion of this work. His sincere sympathy and kind
attitude always encouraged us to carry out the present work firmly. I express our thankfulness
to Prof. Dr. Md. Shahid Ullah, Head of the Department of Electrical and Electronic
Engineering, DIU, Ashulia for providing us with best facilities in the Department and his
timely suggestions. I would also like to thank Md. Ashraful Haque, Assistant Professor,
Department of Electrical and Electronic Engineering, DIU, Ashulia for his guidance and
suggestions in our work. I would also like to thank Ansys HFSS & CST Microwave Studio
Software for providing the simulation package.

Last but not least we would like to thank all my friends and well-wishers who were involved
directly or indirectly in successful completion of the present work.

Nahid Hasan
ID #:172-33-4187

Ripon PK.
ID #: 172-33-4174

Md Abrar Mohasin
ID#:172-33-4152

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 ABSTRACT

Newer microwave and millimeter-wave systems are in higher demand to satisfy emerging
communications difficulties in terms of size, bandwidth, and gain. As a result, antennas are
commonly utilized to meet satellite communication demands. Different applications are
accessible in different frequency ranges in satellite communication. Researchers are
constantly trying to enhance the bandwidth and gain for Microstrip Patch antennas (MPAs).
Using the Ansys HFSS and CST Studio Suite 3D EM simulation software a new optimized
MPA is designed. The proposed antenna is an inset feed partial ground MPA structure that
has resonance frequencies of 8.45 GHz, 9.95 GHz, and 13.17 GHz, with a bandwidth of 6.7
GHz. It operates at frequencies ranging from 7.9 GHz to 14.6 GHz covering the complete X-
band and lower portion of Ku band. The planned antenna is 23.8×28.2×1.6 mm3 in size, with
FR-4 Epoxy as the substrate which has a dielectric constant of 2.2 and loss tangent of 0.02.
The antenna can be used for terrestrial broadband, uplink and downlink of satellite, mobile-
satellite service, broadcasting satellite services, secure military communication, military
satellite communication, direct broadcast satellite TV relay, fixed satellite service, amateur
radio, weather monitoring , air traffic control, maritime vessel traffic control and radar
application.

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 CHAPTER 1
Introduction

1.1 Introduction

Wireless communication has become the fastest rising segment and even the most essential
technological portion in the telecommunication industry. In this modern era, it has become
so omnipresent in the communication field and unavoidable for our daily lives. Moreover,
wireless communication is a revolutionized way of doing almost everything even it gives us
easement and an unprecedented sense of mobility. However, a couple of centuries ago, long-
distance communications were so difficult and even it took additional time to reach. With the
expectation, long-distance communication became easier, such as optical communication. It
has been a vital portion of human lives for a couple of decades and even it is continuously
evolving. Later, in the recent modern history of communication, the electromagnetic (EM)
spectrum is used for the wireless communication system and it is continuously growing.
Nowadays, the wireless communication system is using as a vital part for many new
applications such as Arduino based home automation system, automated traffic and factories,
remote telemedicine service, robotic vehicles etc. In the wireless communication system, an
Antenna is the most essential part. An antenna is an array of conductor or electrical
component that is essential to transmit or receive an electromagnetic (EM) beam spectrum or
radio signal from the space circumfluent it. In transmission, the antenna terminal takes the
electric energy and then radiates the signal as an electromagnetic wave to the space
surrounding it. And then, the Antenna receives electromagnetic signals from all horizontal
directions or any specific direction. Especially, in the wireless communication system, the
antenna is used to establish a wireless connection between two or more devices. The
antenna's performance depends on some terms such as antenna gain, bandwidth, polarization,
radiation pattern, impedance. On the basis of electromagnetic wave wavelength and radiation
frequency, the antenna can operate for all kinds of application in the wireless communication
system such as mobile phone, GPS receiver, satellite, base station wireless local area

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network connections (WLAN), radar system etc. However, the range of operating frequency
of an antenna depends on the materials such as steel plate, flex, ceramic, RT duroid, or wire
material. In the present era, the demand for optimization of the size of an antenna and the
improvement of the performance, new artificial material has been introduced known as a met
material. However, the antenna one of the most complicated aspects of radio frequency (RF)
design and even it is the most overlooked part of a radio frequency (RF) design. Because the
range and the performance of radio frequency critically depend upon the antenna.For a
decade, antenna design become a significant part of telecommunication researchers.
Especially, antenna size minimization and the multifunctional system has become the most
important and interesting part. The demand for size optimization and versatile antennas is
increasing day by day for the different frequency range. To fulfil the demand, Microstrip
Patch Antenna (MPA) has become the most popular antenna design due to its compressed
structure. Compared with the other conventional antenna, MPA has more multilateral
advantages for designing such as the ability to work UFH or HF or more frequency range,
inexpensive to manufacture, easy to assemble in integrated circuit technology [1].By
applying various techniques to design MPA opens the possibility in the enhancement of
antenna characteristic such as antenna bandwidth, gain, directivity, small size, tunable
operational frequency and etc.

1.2 Background

The abstract idea of the Microstrip Patch Antenna (MPA) was first introduced by G.A.
Deschamps in the 1950s [1-3].After 20 years, the MPA concept was first practically
developed by Howell and Munson in the 1970s after the evolution of the printed circuit
board (PCB) technology [1-3].By the early 1980s, basic microstrip antenna elements and
arrays were fairly well known in terms of design and modelling, and developers were turning
their attentions to developing antenna performance features (e.g. bandwidth), and to increase
the application of MPA of the technology. Basically, the microstrip patch antenna consists of
two substrate, one of them is conducting patch (metallic patch on a thin, grounded dielectric
substrate) of any non-planar or planar geometry that is located on one side of the dielectric
substrate. And the second one is the ground plane on another side. The MPA has been widely

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utilized due to the integration with the microstrip technology and the planer configuration.
The basic and most commonly used microstrip antennas are rectangular and circular patches.
For having the advantage of inexpensive, easy for fabricating, and not having difficulty for
integration with external circuitry like microwave monolithic integrated circuits (MMICs)
and probably all integrated circuit, the application of MPA is so wide for civilians and
military applications such as television broadcasting, Wi-Max, multiple-input multiple-
output (MIMO) systems mobile system, radio-frequency identification (RFID), Wi-Fi, global
positioning system (GPS), satellite communications, surveillance systems, vehicle collision
avoidance system, direction founding, radar systems, remote sensing, biological an
application like biological imaging, missile guidance, and so on and still the work is carried
on the microstrip antennas for finding new applications of it by having more integration [2],
[3].

The area of research of MPA for designing and implementation is an ongoing process. For
getting desirable resonant frequencies of MPA modified configuration and various shapes
such as rectangular or triangular with a different dimension of length (L) can help. The
bandwidth of MPA strongly depends on the gap between the conducting patch and the
ground plane. A smaller gap between the conducting patch and the ground plane stores more
energy in the patch capacitance and inductance and radiates less. As a result, increases the
quality factor (Q) of the antenna, indicating a narrow radiation bandwidth. By increasing the
thickness of the dielectric substrate, Q can be reduced, but the problem is increasing the
thickness of the dielectric substrate reduced efficiency since the large portion of the input
power is dissipated in the resistor which takes away the available Power that can be radiated
by the antenna. It can also affect low power gain and the extra radiation from its junction and
junction feeds points. The resonant bandwidth and gain can be affected by the substrate
permittivity (εr) of the microstrip antenna [4]. It is really hard to get a standard antenna gain
and bandwidth characteristic in the same MPA[3].

1.3 Literature Review

Microstrip patch antennas are well known for their benefits, which include light weight, low
fabrication costs, mechanical robustness when placed on hard surfaces, and the capacity to

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operate at dual and triple frequencies [5]. The antenna's limited bandwidth, on the other hand,
proved to be its worst drawback. To alleviate this problem, many strategies have been used,
such as increasing the substrate thickness, introducing parasitic elements (co-planar or stack
arrangement), or changing the patch's shape. Designing an E-shaped patch antenna [14],[15]
or a U-slot patch antenna [8],[16] is one way to change the shape of the patch. The authors
claim in [15] that a U-slot microstrip antenna can enhance bandwidth by up to 30%, while an
E-shaped patch antenna can increase bandwidth by more than 30% over a standard
rectangular patch antenna. When comparing the two designs, the E shaped is significantly
easier to make because it only requires changing the length, width, and position of the slots.
[17] Contains all basic microstrip patch antenna calculations. Figure 2.1(a) shows a wideband
single patch antenna proposed in this paper. As a design reference, the design is based on a
reconfigurable patch antenna in [9], but there is no switch in this design. The major goal of
this work is to improve the fundamental design in [9] in order to increase bandwidth. The
voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of this single patch antenna is less than 2 (VSWR 2).

[18] Proposes an ultra-wideband and tri-band antenna for satellite applications in the C, X,
and Ku bands with a dimension of 1451.66 mm3. A modified rectangular radiating element
with a distorted ground plane makes up the ultra-wideband antenna, which has a bandwidth
of 5 to 16 GHz. The U-shaped slots in the radiating patch were used to generate a tri-band
frequency response that covered the C, X, and Ku bands independently. 4.9-7 GHz, 7.92-
11.08 GHz, and 11.85-15.94 GHz were the frequency ranges that were achieved. Across the
whole bandwidth, the antenna gain varied from 2.3 to 4.5 dBi. [15] Proposes a large Ku-band
microstrip patch antenna with a defective patch and ground with a patch size of 1311 0.035
mm3. Two semi-U shaped slots on the patch, three U shaped slots on the patch, and one
rectangular hole in the ground were added to improve the antenna's return loss and
bandwidth. The suggested antenna has a wide band frequency range of 15.27 to 16.51 GHz,
with a resonance frequency of 15.8 GHz, a VSWR ≤ 1.1, gain of 4.45 dB, and directivity of
5.17 dBi. In [19], a patch antenna with inverted U-slot and L-slot has been proposed for X, C,
and K-band applications, with seven resonant frequencies of 8.25 GHz, 9.7 GHz, 11.93 GHz,
14.19 GHz, 16.52 GHz, 18.7 GHz, and 20.75 GHz in the X, C, and K bands. The suggested
antenna had a volume of 49.4141.6 mm3 and a gain of 6.18 dBi. Using a folded-patch feed,
E-shaped patch, one shorting pin on the edge of the aperture, and an E-shaped edge to boost
the bandwidth, the suggested basic antenna has an impedance bandwidth of 92 percent in the
frequency range 3.94–10.65 GHz [20]. With the use of two shorting pins and a V-shaped-slot

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patch fed by a folded patch, a small wideband antenna functioning in the range of 4–14.4
GHz was also obtained. The upgraded antenna's patch measured 15 15 mm2, whereas the
basic antenna's patch measured 18 15 mm2 on an air substrate with a total thickness of 7 mm.
Dual band Microstrip Patch antennas (MPAs) [2] have been widely employed in several
domains of communication in recent years due to their small size, adaptability, low cost, and
great performance. They're mostly employed for their frequency difference operation. They
have the ability to emit many patterns. System performance may be improved by employing
this dual band antenna, and the antenna designer can link various communication devices to
this antenna for transmitting and receiving signals with confidence. The dual band E-shape
antennas are used in satellite communication and radar systems for applications such as
secure communication, multi-frequency communication, object detection, vehicle speed
testing, and more. Distinct switch states for different frequencies of radiation can be used in
advance to achieve dual frequency setup. Various radio frequencies have been designed for
various communication purposes. Microwave frequencies range from 3 to 30 GHz. This
antenna is designed to operate in the microwave frequency ranges of C-band and X-band.
The resonant frequencies include 4.8 GHz with 167.7 MHz bandwidth, 6 GHz with 58 MHz
bandwidth, and 9.2 GHz with 326 MHz bandwidth. Two parasitic layers are used to increase
the bandwidth of this antenna. Satellite communications, full-time satellite TV networks, and
raw satellite feeds all employ the C-band microwave frequency spectrum. Because it is less
vulnerable to rain fade than the Ku band, this C-band is widely employed in places subject to
tropical rainfall. It operates at a frequency range of 4 to 8 GHz. In military communication
systems, the X-band of microwave frequency spectrum is utilized. It's also suitable for radar
applications. It operates at a frequency of 8-12 GHz.

1.4 Aim and Objectives

The goal of this study is to improve the MPA characteristics' performance in the X band. The
goals are highlighted in the table below.

• Design a microstrip patch antenna with improved bandwidth

• Gain enhancement of the designed antenna

• To reduce antenna return loss.

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1.5 Methodology

All of MPA's performance improvements have been made in the X and Ku band frequency
domain. The use of two different sorts of slots in MPA results in a significantly enhanced
result. Step-by-step strategies for achieving our desired outcomes have been outlined.

Step1: Defining the length (L) and width (W) of a simple rectangular microstrip patch
antenna with basic structure (W).

Step2: Using Rectangular shape in the antenna to increase the bandwidth.

Step3: Modifying and Optimizing the widths and lengths of the inset slot and partial ground
for better results

Step4: To analysis the performance of all designed antenna individually in term of antenna
characteristic especially antenna gain, antenna return loss and antenna bandwidth.

Step5: Optimizing the widths and lengths of the inset slot and partial ground for better results

Step6: Comparing the proposed antenna parameters with recent literature

1.6 Thesis Organization

This thesis is divided into 5 main chapters and the reference section.

Chapter 1 discusses about the introduction, literature review, objectives and scope of the
thesis.

Chapter 2 explains brief literature studies of the microstrip antenna in order to get its basic
fundamentals. It also discusses the relevant literatures on designing wideband microstrip
patch antenna using slot.

Chapter 3 describes the design procedure of wideband high gain Microstrip patch antenna
using microstrip feed line technique. A series of antenna configuration with optimization has

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been discussed in this chapter. To increase the gain of the proposed antenna array
configuration has been introduced.

Chapter 4 includes comparison between HFSS studio and CST, return loss graphs,
bandwidth for all individual antennas, average and vector current distribution, 2D and 3D
radiation patterns for the proposed single patch antenna. Gain of the various array
configurations has also been compared in this chapter. The simulation is done using HFSS
studio CST of rectangular microstrip patch antenna. A brief comparative study also has been
made between proposed antenna and other previously designed antennas in terms of various
antenna parameters.

Finally, Chapter 5 gives a conclusion of the work and scope for future work considerations.

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 CHAPTER 2
Literature Reviews

2.1 Antenna Parameters

An antenna is a device that converts electrical energy into electromagnetic (EM) energy like a
transducer (vice versa).For designing an antenna, some measurable parameters should be
considered to comprehend the strength and weakness of that device. An antenna has a
different kind of parameters to understand the good or bad antenna performance, and the
parameters depend on one another. Moreover, it should be confirmed that all the parameters
are more optimized for designing an antenna. For example, the return loss should be -10dB or
less and the VSWR should be 2 or less.

2.1.1 Antenna Field regions

Although not an antenna parameter in and of itself, understanding antenna field regions is
essential for determining how far away from the antenna the antenna actually radiates. The
fields that surround an antenna are separated into three main areas:

❖ Radiating Near Field or Fresnel Region

❖ Far Field or Fraunhofer Region
❖ Reactive Near Field

The far field region is the most essential since they influence the antenna radiation pattern
and most of the other parameters. Antennas, on the other hand, is utilized to establish long-

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distance communication. So this is the significant region of operation for most types of
antennas.

Figure 2.1(a) Antenna Radiation flow

An antenna, the two field components are present in the electric field and magnetic field
equations. Those are known as radiative fields and reactive fields. In the denominator of the
equation, there is usually a distance ‘r' of the order of two or higher in the reactive field
components. In the radiative component, there is a distance component with ‘r' of the first
order as well. As a result, the reactive component of the field dies as distance rises, but the
radiative component remains, which dies at a far greater distance than reactive fields. There
isn't much radiation available in the near field since the reactive field is stronger. However,
this distance, on the order of R< λ0 (Wavelength at the operating frequency), which is
measured in mm and cm at microwave frequencies, is too small for us to notice. As a result,
unless it is requested that it be done in the near field region, every parameter of an antenna is
discussed in the far field region because radiation only exists there.

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 Figure 2.1(b) Field Regions

2.1.2 Radiation pattern:

An antenna's radiation pattern is a graphical depiction of the antenna's radiation intensity in

relation to space co-ordinates, usually in a spherical co-ordinate system. Antennas are
classified as directional or omnidirectional based on their radiation pattern. The term
omnidirectional antenna refers to an antenna that radiates uniformly along the azimuthal
angle but fluctuates sinusoidally with regard to elevation angle. On the other hand, an
antenna is said to be directional if it radiates with stronger directivity at a specific angle
compared to other angles. The term "directivity" is used to describe an antenna's
directionality. A 3D plot, 2D plot, or Polar plot can be used to depict a radiation pattern.
Analytical objectives necessitate the use of 2D and Polar graphs. The pattern of the antenna
radiating in different directions can be seen graphically in these illustrations.

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 Figure 2. 1(c) Radiation pattern

2.1.3 Directive Gain:

Another antenna that radiates differently at different angles is the directional antenna.
Directive gain is the ratio of an antenna's radiation intensity at a specific angle to the average
radiation intensity in all directions. It's written as dBi.

2.1.4 Directivity:

A directional antenna always has a radiation angle where the intensity of the radiation is
higher than in all other directions. The directivity of an antenna is the directive gain of a
directional antenna in the direction of maximum radiation.

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2.1.5 Antenna Efficiency:

At least two types of losses are always connected with an antenna. One is due to an
impedance mismatch between the feed line and the antenna, while the other is due to an
impedance mismatch between the antenna and the free space. Another reason is that because
the antenna is a conductor, it suffers losses. As a result, the antenna will not be able to emit
the entire input power. The efficiency of an antenna is the ratio of its output power to its input
power.

2.1.6 Antenna Gain:

Antenna gain is the antenna's directivity when the antenna efficiency is taken into account.
An antenna's directivity can be thought of as the ideal case, whereas gain is the real case. As a
result, if all of an antenna's input powers are radiated, the gain and directivity will be the
same. There will always be losses associated with antennas in the real world; gain is always
less than directivity.

𝐴𝑛𝑡𝑒𝑛𝑛𝑎 𝐺𝑎𝑖𝑛 = 𝐴𝑛𝑡𝑒n𝑛𝑎 𝐸𝑓𝑓𝑖𝑐𝑖𝑒𝑛𝑐𝑦 ×𝐷𝑖𝑟𝑒𝑐𝑡𝑖𝑣𝑖𝑡𝑦

2.1.7 Voltage Standing Wave Ratio:

There will always be some impedance mismatch between antenna and generator because it is
impossible to match the impedance perfectly. Because of the impedance mismatch, some of
the signal will be reflected back to the generator from the antenna. The waveguide contains
both the forward wave to the antenna and the reflected wave from the antenna. Inside the
waveguide, these two voltages combine to generate a 'Standing Wave'. There is a maximum
and a minimum for this wave. The Voltage Standing Wave Ratio is the ratio of the maximum
and minimum voltages inside the waveguide (VSWR).

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When there is no mismatch between the generator and the antenna, the VSWR value is 1. It
indicates a wave that is 100 percent radiated and 0 percent reflected. Normally, a VSWR of 2
is considered a good match because it represents around 10% of the reflected power.

2.1.8 Return Loss / S11 Parameter:

Another measure that conveys information about impedance mismatch is return loss.
Although it provides the same information as VSWR, it is the most commonly used metric in
antenna literature to characterize impedance mismatch and resonance. The reflected power to
incident power ratio is known as the reflection coefficient. The following equation is used to
compute it:

Where, zA = Antenna impedance

zo = Transmission Line impedance

When the antenna and line impedances are perfectly matched, the reflection coefficient is
zero, indicating that there is no reflection. Return loss is the decibel value of the reflection
coefficient. The following is the relationship between the Reflection Coefficient and the
VSWR:

Table 2.1 provides a comparative understanding of VSWR and Return Loss. The following
equation in decibels gives the return loss. To conform with the IEEE specification, the
negative sign ensures that the return loss value remains positive. The s11 parameter is the
minus value of the return loss.

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2.1.9 Input Impedance

The impedance presented by an antenna at its terminals, or the ratio of voltage to current at a
pair of terminals, is known as input impedance. Maximum power transfer is accomplished
when the transmission line and antenna input impedances are matched. If it is not matched,
the entire system efficiency will suffer. Because a reflected wave is formed at the antenna
terminal and travels back to the energy source, this is the case.

In order to ensure maximum energy transfer between transmission line and patch, the input
impedance for this parameter must match the transmission line's characteristics impedance. If
the input impedances are not equal, a reflected wave is formed at the antenna terminal and
returns to the energy source. The overall system efficiency is reduced as a result of energy
reflection. Only this lost efficiency will occur if the antenna is utilized to transmit or receive
energy.

2.1.10 Antenna Bandwidth:

Different types of bandwidths exist in antennas, depending on certain characteristics. The s11
parameter bandwidth refers to a range of frequencies where return loss is less than -10dB.
Radiation pattern bandwidth is defined as the range of frequencies throughout which the
radiation pattern remains consistent. Antenna bandwidth is defined as a frequency range in
which all antenna characteristics are within an acceptable range.

2.2 Introduction of Microstrip Patch Antenna

Microstrip antennas are one of the most common antenna types in the microwave frequency
range, and they're also common in the millimeter-wave frequency range [2, 5, 6]. Microstrip
antennas are typically too large to be practical below 1 GHz, and other forms of antennas,

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such as wire antennas, predominate. Microstrip patch antennas, also known as patch
antennas, are made out of a metal patch on top of a grounded dielectric substrate with a
thickness h and relative permittivity and permeability εr and μr, as indicated in Figure 2.1
(typically μr = 1). The metallic patch can come in a variety of shapes, the most frequent of
which are rectangular and circular.

The lightweight, conformability, and low cost of microstrip antennas make them appealing.
These antennas can be used with active devices and printed strip-line feed networks. In
antenna engineering, it is a relatively recent field. Since the mid-1950s, the radiation
properties of micro strip structures have been known. When conformal antennas were
required for missiles in the early 1970s, this type of antenna was developed. Microstrip
resonant patches, both rectangular and circular, have been widely used in a variety of array
topologies. The present revolution in electronic circuit downsizing brought about by
improvements in large scale integration is a major contributor to recent advances in
microstrip antennas. Microstrip antennas based on photolithographic technology are seen as
an engineering achievement because traditional antennas are frequently big and expensive
parts of an electronic system [7].

Figure 2.2(a) Patch antenna

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A Microstrip Patch antenna, in its most basic form, comprises of a radiating patch on one side
of a dielectric substrate and a ground plane on the other, as shown in Figure2.2 (a). The patch
is usually made of conductive metals like copper or gold and can be manufactured into any
shape. On the dielectric substrate, the radiating patch and feed lines are normally photo
etched.

The patch is often square, rectangular, circular, triangular, elliptical, or some other common
shape to simplify analysis and performance prediction, as shown in Figure 2.2. (b). The
length L of a rectangular patch is typically 0.3333λ0˂L˂0.5 λ0, where λ0 denotes the free-
space wavelength. The patch is chosen to be very thin such that t ˂˂ λ0 (where t is the patch
thickness). The height h of the dielectric substrate is usually 0.003λ0≤ h ≤ 0.5λ0. The
dielectric constant of the substrate (εr) is typically in the range 2.22≤ εr ≤12.

Figure 2.2(b) Different shapes of Patch elements

The fringing fields between the patch edge and the ground plane are what cause microstrip
patch antennas to emit. A thick dielectric substrate with a low dielectric constant is desired
for superior antenna performance because it gives better efficiency, larger bandwidth, and
better radiation [8]. However, such a setup necessitates a larger antenna. To make a compact
Microstrip patch antenna, higher dielectric constant substrates must be employed, which are

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less efficient and result in a narrower bandwidth. As a result, a trade-off between antenna size
and antenna performance must be made.

2.2.1 Advantages and Disadvantages:

Because of its low-profile design, microstrip patch antennas are becoming more common in
wireless applications. As a result, they're ideal for integrated antennas in handheld wireless
devices like cellular phones and pagers. Microstrip patch antennas are commonly used for
telemetry and communication antennas on missiles because they must be tiny and conformal.
Satellite communication is another area where they've proven successful.

Some of their principal advantages discussed by are given below:

• Mechanically robust when mounted on rigid surfaces.
• Low volume and light weight.
• Planar configuration with a low profile that can be easily conformed
to the host surface.
• Because of the low cost of production, it can be produced in
enormous quantities.
• Both linear and circular polarization are supported.
• Microwave integrated circuits can be simply integrated (MICs).
• Dual and triple frequency functioning is possible.

Microstrip patch antennas suffer from more drawbacks as compared to conventional

antennas. Some of their major disadvantages discussed by [9] and Garg et al [10] are given
below:

• Narrow bandwidth
• Low efficiency
• Low Gain
• Extraneous radiation from feeds and junctions
• Poor end fire radiator except tapered slot antennas
• Low power handling capacity.
• Surface wave excitation

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The antenna quality factor of microstrip patch antennas is quite high (Q). It depicts the
antenna losses, with a big Q resulting in narrow bandwidth and low efficiency. The thickness
of the dielectric substrate can be increased to reduce Q. However, as the thickness of the layer
grows, a greater proportion of the overall power given by the source is converted to a surface
wave. Because it is scattered at the dielectric bends and causes worsening of the antenna
properties, this surface wave contribution might be considered an undesired power loss. Other
issues, like as reduced gain and power handling capacity, can be addressed by arranging the
elements in an array.

2.3 Basic ‘Principles of Operation’:

In its most basic form, a patch antenna is a flat plate over a ground plane, as shown in the
diagram. The feed probe is the central conductor of a cable that couples electromagnetic
energy into and out of the patch. Also shown is the electric field distribution of a rectangular
patch activated in its fundamental mode.

Figure 2.3(a) A Side view of Microstrip Patch Antenna

The electric field is zero at the patch's center, maximal (positive) on one side, and minimal
(negative) on the other. It should be noted that the minimum and maximum values change
side depending on the applied signal's instantaneous phase.

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2.4 Feeding Technique:

MPA use a variety of feeding tactics. Because these antennas have a dielectric substrate on
one side and a radiating element on the other, they have a dielectric substrate on one side and
a radiating element on the other. These feeding approaches are divided into two groups:
contacting and non-contacting. The power is sent directly to the radiating patch through the
connecting element, i.e. the microstrip line, in the contacting feed technique. An
electromagnetic magnetic coupling is used to transfer power between the microstrip line and
the radiating patch in a non-contacting approach. Even if there are numerous novel feed
approaches, the microstrip line, coaxial probe, aperture coupling, and proximity coupling are
the most popular or widely employed.

2.4.1 Microstrip Line:

The patch antenna's microstrip feed line is linked directly to the patch antenna's edge. This
feed concept has the advantage of being etched on the same substrate, keeping the overall
structure flat.

Figure 2.4(a) Microstrip line feed.

It is usually significantly smaller in width than the patch, easy to match, and manufacture by
manipulating the inset position [11], as shown in Figure 2.4(a).

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2.4.2 Coaxial Feed

Coaxial-line feed, also known as probe feed, is a common technique for feeding microstrip
patch antennas nowadays, in which the coaxial's internal conductor is extended through the
dielectric and connected to the radiation patch antenna, while the outer conductor is
connected to the Ground plane ground plane, as shown in Figure 2.4(b). The main advantage
of this feed is that it can be placed in any desired location within the patch to match the
patch's input impedance. It's also simple to make and emits little spurious radiation. Its
downsides include a restricted bandwidth and a greater difficulty in modeling [12].

Figure 2.4(b) Probe-fed patch antenna.

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2.4.3 Aperture-Coupled Feed

Figure 2.4(c) Aperture-Coupled Feed

The aperture-coupled structure, which consists of two substrates separated by a ground plane,
is a popular feeding configuration in microstrip patch antennas. Furthermore, the lower
substrate is visible from the bottom. As shown in Figure 2.4, there is a microstrip feed line
whose energy is linked to the patch during a slot on the ground plane separating the two
substrates (c). The bottom substrate is made of a high dielectric material, whereas the top
substrate is made of a thick low dielectric constant substance. In addition to isolating the feed
from the radiating element, the ground plane between the substrates lowers spurious radiation
interference for pattern development and polarization purity. This feeding system has the
disadvantage of being difficult to construct and having a narrow band. It is, on the other hand,
easy to predict and has a moderate amount of spurious radiation [12].

2.4.4 Proximity Coupled Feed

Electromagnetic coupling is a term used to describe this type of feeding mechanism.

As illustrated in Figure 2.4(d), the feeding line is placed between the ground plane and the
patch, which is separated by two dielectric media.

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 Figure 2.4(d) Proximity Coupled Feed

Between the patch and the feeding line, energy is exchanged via electromagnetic coupling.
The removal of spurious feed-network radiation and the improvement in bandwidth owing to
the increased overall substrate thickness are two advantages of this feeding design. The
primary disadvantages of this feeding technology are that it is difficult to manufacture since
two layers must be precisely aligned [12].

Following the selection of the L and W patch dimensions for the specified substrate, the feed
point must be calculated in order to create a satisfactory impedance match between the
generator impedance and the patch element's input impedance. As a result of the change in
feed location, the input impedance changes, providing a simple way for impedance matching.
The feed point is chosen so that the input resistance Rin is equal to the impedance of the feed
line, which is commonly 50 ohm.

2.5 Feed Point Location

Following the selection of the L and W patch dimensions for the specified substrate, the feed
point must be calculated in order to create a satisfactory impedance match between the
generator impedance and the patch element's input impedance. As a result of the change in
feed location, the input impedance changes, providing a simple way for impedance matching.

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The feed point is chosen so that the input resistance Rin equals the feed line impedance,
which is commonly 50 ohm.

2.5.1 Polarization

When used in the dominant mode, the polarization of a rectangular patch antenna is linear
and directed along the resonating dimension. Patch antennas with a large bandwidth can also
operate in the higher order mode. These modes can have different emission patterns and
polarization than the dominant mode. The fringing field along the no radiating edges is
another source of cross-polarization. The fields at the radiating edges are orientated 90
degrees away from these fields. In the E and H planes, they have little effect on the radiation
fields. Even the perfect, single mode patch will radiate cross-polarized fields in the
intercardinal planes. With increasing substrate thickness, the level of cross-polarization rises.
The antenna's polarization can be altered mechanically or electrically. PIN diodes or varactor
diodes can be used for electronic tuning. In mobile communications, polarization 24 diversity
is used to adjust for signal strength loss due to fading [13].

Table 2.1 Comparison between Different Feeding Techniques

Microstrip Line Aperture Proximity

Characteristics Coaxial Feed
Feed Coupled Feed Coupled Feed

Spurious feed Less

More More Minimum
radiation
Poor due to
Reliability Better Good Good
soldering

Ease of Soldering and Alignment Alignment

Easy
fabrication drilling needed required required
Impedance
Easy Easy Easy Easy
Matching

Bandwidth 2-5% 2-5% 2-5% 13%

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 CHAPTER 3
DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED PATCH
ANTENNA

The primary objective of this thesis is to design a wideband microstrip patch antenna that can
operate at full X band (8 GHz -12 GHz) and possibly some portion of Ku band (12GHz – 18
GHz). Due to absence of concise mathematical formula to design a wideband MPA it is
challenging task to design one that can provide required bandwidth. This inset feed partial
ground wideband MPA design strategies and full process of iterative modification of the
antenna design along with gradual enhancement of the bandwidth are presented
chronologically in this chapter.

Ansys HFSS simulation software is used to get the improved bandwidth and desired antenna
performance. Another EM analysis simulation software, CST Microwave Suite is used to
verify the antenna performance. Both results confirmed that the antenna has the full
capability to operate at complete X band and lower portion of Ku band.

3.1 Basic Parameters

Three primary parameters are shown below that are selected to design the antenna. These
parameters are chosen with specific design goal in mind that will be discussed later in this
chapter. These parameters not subject to modification for design optimization.

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 • The frequency of operation: X band frequency domain has been selected for MPA
operation.

• Dielectric constant: FR-4 Epoxy substrate with dielectric constant of 4.4 has been
selected as dielectric material for MPA.

• Height of substrate: Generally, MPAs are very compact devices so for basic
configuration of MPA standard thickness has been selected as 1.6 mm.

3.2 Substrate Selection

The two most significant characteristics to consider when designing patch antennas are
substrate permittivity and loss tangent. The microstrip patch antenna's most serious
limitations are its narrow bandwidth and poor gain. As a result, choosing the right substrate
permittivity decreases surface wave losses and increases antenna performance, particularly
impedance bandwidth and radiation efficiency [22]. A thicker substrate will enhance radiated
power, minimize conductor loss, and improve impedance bandwidth, in addition to being
mechanically stronger. However, it will add weight, as well as dielectric loss, surface wave
loss, and unwanted radiation from the probe feed. A Substrate with low dielectric constant
will enhance the fringing field at the patch periphery. As a result, the antenna's radiated
power will be enhanced as well. Therefore, a lower dielectric constant is preferred, however
it will increase antenna size so the substrate material should be chose accordingly. The
antenna's dielectric loss increases with a large substrate loss tangent, lowering its efficiency.

The permittivity of the most often used dielectric substrate materials for printing patch
antennas ranges from roughly 2 to 10 depending on the application. The antenna gain
increases as the permittivity decreases. This is because the traveling wave of a higher
permittivity substrate slows down as it passes through the antenna.

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3.3 Microstrip Patch Antenna Dimension

Patch width has a modest impact on the antenna's resonance frequency and radiation pattern.
However, it has a greater impact on input resistance and bandwidth. A larger patch width
improves the amount of power radiated, resulting in lower resonant resistance, more
bandwidth, and higher radiation efficiency. The production of grating lobes in antenna arrays
is a limitation against a wider patch width. To achieve good radiation efficiency, it has been
suggested that the length to width ratio of the path should be between one and two (1 L/W 2).
Because of the patch's intrinsic narrow bandwidth, the patch length affects the resonant
frequency and is a significant parameter in the design. The length of a microstrip patch (L)
can be estimated as,

…………….3.1

Where c, fr and εr represents speed of light in free space, resonant frequency and dielectric
constant of the substrate respectively.

Figure 3.3(a) Microstrip Patch Antenna Dimension

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 Figure 3.3(b) Microstrip Patch Antenna Dimension

The fields are not limited to the patch in practice. As illustrated in figure 3.3(a), a portion of
the fields lay outside the patch's physical dimensions (LW). The fringing field is what it's
called.

The influence of the fringing field along the patch width, W, can be taken into account using
the effective dielectric constant for a microstrip line of width W on the given substrate.

………………(3.2)

Where h is the dielectric substrate's height. The influence of the fringing field along the patch
length L can be stated as [20] by adding a line length to either end of the patch length.

……………..(3.3)

The effective length is given by –

…………..(3.4)

The resonant frequency is expressed as –

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 ……………….(3.5)

For efficient radiation the width W is given by –

………………..(3.6)

It is necessary to have a finite ground plane for practical reasons. If the size of the ground
plane is bigger than the patch dimensions by approximately six times the substrate thickness
all around the periphery, similar results can be obtained for finite and infinite ground planes.
As a result, the ground plane dimensions for this design are [21].

……………….(3.7)

………………………..(3.8)

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3.4 Design of RMPA

The design process and bandwidth improvement of the MPA is shown in this section. The
primary parameter is to look for is the S11/return loss, VSWR, Bandwidth, Directivity and
Gain. To get a better idea about MPA parameters a 2.4 GHz WiFi band antenna design is
shown in the figure 3.3 (a)

Figure 3.4 (a): 2.4 GHz WiFi band Microstrip Patch Antenna

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 Figure 3.4 (b): S11 Parameter of 2.4 GHz WiFi band MPA

This 2.4 GHz WiFi band antenna is a full ground inset feed MPA. The substrate size, patch
length and width, Feed Line width can be directly calculated from the mathematical
expression mentioned in chapter 2. However with the calculate value the resonance frequency
is not exactly 2.4 GHz. With some little modification of patch dimension the result reached
satisfactory level. From S11 parameter plot we can observe that the antenna is resonating at
2.39 GHz with lowest return loss of -30.4 dB. The m2 and m3 marker of the plot indicating
S11 of -10 dB at 2.33 GHz and 2.45 GHz .So we can conclude from the graph that the
antenna provides 120 MHz of bandwidth.

To get the optimized antenna at first we calculated the dimension of the patch, ground and
feedline using mathematical expressions [6]. With this calculated dimension we designed a
simple rectangular MPA using Ansys HFSS EM simulation software. FR-4 Epoxy with
dielectric constant of 4.4 and loss tangent of 0.02 is selected as substrate material. For FR-4
Epoxy substrate optimized thickness is found to be 1.5 mm to 1.6 mm [22]. We used
thickness of 1.6 mm because FR-4 is widely available in this size. Substrate length and width
are selected 23.8 mm and 28.2 mm respectively. For patch length is 13.8 mm and width is 19

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mm. A 50 Ohm microstrip line with a width of 3 mm used to feed the antenna. Lumped port
is used to provide excitation for the antenna.

Figure 3.4 (c): Designed Simple Rectangular MPA

The S11 parameter plot of the designed MPA indicates resonance at 12.47 GHz with S11
value of -47.3 dB. The resulted resonance frequency is very different from the expected one.
The difference between calculated and simulated resonance frequency is due to the imperfect
nature of the empirical equations. Although resonance frequency is not in X band it is very
close to it and a starting point for our desired antenna. Iterative design optimization can be
done to get the antenna with intended performance

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 Figure 3.4 (d): S11 parameter of designed Rectangular MPA

3.5 Optimization

The antenna optimization process begins with a trial-and-error step in which we determine
how different factors affect the antenna's behavior. It has been demonstrated that, in order to
position a resonant frequency at a different operational frequency, a first practical method can
be used. Using an optimization strategy necessitates determining the values of several
parameters or components.[23]

When dealing with complicated problems, traditional search and optimization methods have a
variety of drawbacks. When one algorithm is used to tackle a variety of issues, the major
challenge occurs. This is because each classical approach is designed to efficiently tackle
only a specific class of problems. As a result, these methodologies lack the flexibility to
address the wide range of difficulties that designers and practitioners face. Furthermore, most
traditional approaches lack a global viewpoint and frequently converge to a locally optimal
solution.

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 Figure 3.5 (a): Dimension sweep of the inset

Figure 3.5 (b): Variation of partial ground plane length

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There wasn't much of a theory or equation presented to discover an optimal antenna geometry
among the numerous methods described. Various arbitrary forms with varied lengths and
widths were presented. Designers of rectangular-shape patch antennas attempted to come up
with equations. According to the problem, the easiest way to find the best MPA solution is to
use a trial and error or optimization method.

Figure 3.5 (c): Resulted design after introduction of inset and partial ground

Introduction of inset slot and partial ground with a varying dimension resulted very good
outcome compare to initial findings. S11/Return loss plot now showing a wideband response
with frequency ranging from 9.7 GHz to 13.9 GHz. With current optimization the antenna
now covers a good portion of X band. To cover the full X band more optimization needs to
be done.

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Figure 3.5 (d): S11 parameter after introduction of inset and partial ground

Different approaches have the advantages of being very straightforward to construct,

requiring no additional elements to be put in the device, and making the device's area
compact. In one of the works, a quarter wave monopole theory was developed, in which a
slot was cut in the edge so that it might operate as a monopole when joined with free space
[24]

To use an advancement system, we must first choose our estimates for various factors or
variables. It also necessitates the use of a fitness function to calculate the fitness of several
solutions and arrive at the best outcome. The purpose of this study is to construct a fitness
function that will allow the antenna to reach the desired bandwidth. Using the preceding
equations and approaches, the following Rectangular shape MPA(ESMPA) was obtained,
which was initially un optimized. Given the non-desired current values of the antenna's length
and operational frequency, this rule can be used to compute the length that the antenna must
have in order to attain the predicted resonant frequency.

Following the procedures in "First optimization," a variety of parameter combinations were

tested, using the previously indicated criterion as a guideline to position the resonant
frequencies in the ideal location while balancing the other design parameters.

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After carrying out all the design optimization using variety of parameter combination our
final design is presented below.

Figure 3.5 (e): Dimensions of substrate, patch and feedline of the proposed X
band MPA

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 Figure 3.5 (f): Partial ground dimension of the proposed X band MPA

Table 3.5: Dimensions of the Proposed X band MPA

Parameters Dimensions (mm)

Ls 23.8
Ws=Lg 28.2
Wg 9.6
Lp 13.8
Wp 19
Lf 10
Wf 3
Li 5
Wi 3.6

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Figure 3.5 (g): Simulated 3D view of the proposed MPA in Ansys HFSS

Figure 3.5 (h): Return loss of the proposed X band MPA

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After final optimization antenna resonance frequency is lowered from 12.5 GHz to 9.95 GHz
with minimum S11 vale of -36.4 dB. Antenna now covers full X band and lower portion of
Ku band. Proposed Antenna S11 -10 dB points are 7.9 GHz and 14.6 GHz. So the antenna
fully supports the entire X band (8-12 GHz) and it has a bandwidth of 6.7 GHz.

Figure 3.5 (i): VSWR of the proposed X band Antenna

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 CHAPTER 4
Result and Analysis

4.1 Results and Discussion of the Proposed Antenna using Ansys

HFSS

To achieve the thesis's main goal, extensive simulations were run to determine the most
optimized antenna for X band operation. Many antennas and array configurations were
created, and a progressive increase in bandwidth was noticed. For enhanced antenna
properties, the proposed antenna inset slots cutting and partial ground approach has been
applied. Because of the features of inset slots, partial ground the bandwidth has expanded
exponentially. The proposed antenna has a bandwidth of 6.7 GHz and covers full X band
frequency range and 12-14.6 GHz portion of the Ku which means it can support terrestrial
broadband, uplink and downlink of satellite, mobile-satellite service, broadcasting satellite
services, secure military communication, military satellite communication, direct broadcast
satellite TV relay, fixed satellite service, amateur radio, weather monitoring , air traffic
control, maritime vessel traffic control and radar application.

The antenna performance metrics such as bandwidth, return loss, average current distribution,
vector current distribution, 2D, 3D radiation patterns of gain and directivity are simulated
using Ansys HFSS 3D EM simulator. The same performance metrics are also simulated using
CST Studio Suite 3D EM simulation tool for comparison purpose that will be discussed in the
section.

The current distribution depicts the antenna structure and aids in determining the density and
direction of current movement inside the patch at various frequencies. It also demonstrates
how different parts of the antenna respond to various operating frequencies. The power
radiated by an antenna as a function of the direction away from the antenna is shown
graphically in 2D and 3D radiation patterns. 2D radiation pattern provides 3D rotatable view
of antenna directivity and gain with emission style in terms of axial ratio, azimuth, and

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elevation for both polar and cartesian form, whereas 3D radiation pattern provides 3D
rotatable view of antenna directivity and gain with emission style in terms of axial ratio,
azimuth, and elevation for both polar and cartesian form. Simulations for suggested design
antennas at various resonance frequencies have been performed, allowing for a better
understanding of antenna parameters.

4.1.1 Average Current Distribution

The average current distribution shows which side is radiating and which is non-radiating.
Normally, an antenna resonates at a half wavelength length. Current maximum occurs at the
centre of a half wavelength in patches and dipoles, and minimum offers at the edges where
the conductor ends. Current is greatest (bright red) in the center of the radiating side and
lowest at the margins. It is clear which side is radiating or acting as length and which side is
non-radiating or acting as breadth in this case. On the non-radiating side, there is no current
density, as can be seen.

Figure 4.1(a): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 4.88 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(b): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 8.45 GHz

Figure 4.1(c): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(d): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 13.17 GHz

Figure 4.1(e): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz

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At 7.88 GHz, 8.45 GHz, 9.95 GHz, 13.17 GHz and 14.6 GHz, the average current density on
the surface of all antennas is shown in the diagram above. The maximum current density is
shown in red in these figures, while the minimum current density is shown in blue in the
patch of the MPA.

4.1.2 Vector Current Distribution

The vector current distribution depicts how the current is spread and flowing in the antenna's
surface. It aids in determining the antenna's polarization. The figure shows that current
follows a linear path in the surface, which corresponds to the antenna's linear polarization.
The antenna's highest current is in the middle of its length, and it’s smallest near the edges,
according to the distribution.

Figure 4.1(f): Vector current distribution of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(g): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 8.45 GHz

Figure 4.1(h): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(i): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 13.17 GHz

Figure 4.1(j): Average current distribution of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz

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Figures 4.1 (f) to 4.1 (j) illustrate the vector current distribution over the surface of all patch
antennas at primary and secondary resonant frequencies as well as -10 dB points. The
magnitude of the current density at a certain location at a specific time is indicated by the size
of the vectors..

4.1.3 2D Radiation Pattern

The 2D radiation pattern aids in understanding how the antenna radiates in 3D. Due to the
difficulty of displaying a 3D pattern on a 2D surface, the 2D radiation pattern is utilized for
analytical purposes. A good antenna should keep its radiation pattern consistent over the
whole frequency range it covers. The radiation pattern of the proposed antenna is shown
below at 7.88 GHz, 9.95 GHz and 14.6 GHz.

Figure 4.1(k): Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(l): Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz

Figure 4.1(m): Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz

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4.1.4 3D Radiation Pattern:

Although the 3D radiation pattern cannot be used to derive much information, it has been
included in the book to help understand the 2D patterns. A better understanding of antenna
power radiation direction can be gained by looking at a 3D radiation pattern. Figure 4.1(n) to
4.1(o) depicts actual 3D radiation patterns of the proposed single element inset feed MPA at
7.88 GHz, 8.45 GHz and 14.6 GHz frequencies. They represent the pattern in 3D space. The
strength of the field at a certain (theta, phi) angle is represented by the size of the pattern
from the origin.

Figure 4.1(n): 3D Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(o): 3D Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 8.45 GHz

Figure 4.1(p): 3D Radiation pattern of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz

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Directivity compares the power density radiated by an ideal isotropic radiator (which emits
uniformly in all directions) radiating the same total power to the power density radiated by
the antenna in the direction of its strongest emission. Figure 4.1 (q) to 4.1(s) depicts
directivity of our proposed MPA at three frequencies of 7.88, 9.95 and 14.6 GHz. The
antenna provides a maximum gain of 6.33 dB at 8.45 GHz and it has a maximum directivity
of 7.08 dBi.

Figure 4.1(q): Directivity(3D) of proposed MPA at 7.88 GHz

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 Figure 4.1(r): Directivity(3D) of proposed MPA at 9.95 GHz

Figure 4.1(s): Directivity(3D) of proposed MPA at 14.6 GHz

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4.2 Simulated Results of the Proposed Antenna using CST
Microwave Studio

To verify the result that we got from Ansys HFSS, we designed the antenna in CST Studio
Suite using the exact same materials and parameters. However exact same simulation
configuration can’t be used due to some dissimilarities between two software. The obtained
result from CST Studio Suite is presented here.

Figure 4.2(a): Simulated 3D view of proposed MPA using CST

Figure 4.2 (b) shows the of the S11 parameter (return loss) of the planned antenna using CST
Studio Suite. The S11 parameter is very important because it determines how well the
antenna impedance matches the reference transmission line impedance. In general, the
antenna is modeled with 50 Ohm reference impedance. When the antenna impedance is
perfectly matched to the reference 50 ohm impedance, the antenna port reflects less power
and the antenna radiates maximum power in the direction of the main lobe.

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 Figure 4.2(b): S11 parameter of proposed MPA using CST

Figure 4.2(c): VSWR of proposed MPA using CST

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The antenna impedance is well matched with the reference transmission line impedance due
to the large amount of return loss in the negative direction. The plot shows -35.11 dB of
return loss at 8.93 GHz which indicates only 0.031 percent of power reflection due to
mismatch.

Figure 4.2(c): shows simulated VSWR of the proposed antenna using CST Studio Suite. It
has lowest value of 1.036 at 8.93 GHz and since it is very close to 1 therefore VSWR plot
also suggests a near perfect impedance matching.

Figure 4.2(d): Comparison of simulated S11 Parameter using HFSS and CST

Comparison between simulated return loss(S11) of the proposed antenna using both Ansys
HFSS and CST Studio Suite is presented in the figure 4.2(d). The comparison plot
demonstrates a good similarity between two results. Both results show very good impedance
matching. Lowest S11 of HFSS CST result is -36.37 dB and -35.11 dB. The Antenna
resonates at 9.95 GHz for HFSS and 8.93 GHz for CST. Operating frequency range of the
proposed antenna is 7.88 GHz to 14.6 GHz and 8.35 GHz to 14.25 GHz for HFSS and CST
respectively. The antenna offers 6.7 GHz and 5.9 GHz according to HFSS and CST result

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consecutively. Although there is some minor dissimilarity between two results, it is not
unexpected. Due to some fundamental difference between two EM simulation software,
minor dissimilarity is very reasonable.

Table 4.2.1: Comparison of the simulated results using Ansys HFSS and CST Studio Suite

Parameters Ansys HFSS CST Studio Suite

Resonance Frequency 9.55 GHz 8.93 GHz
Lower cut-off frequency 7.88 GHz 8.35 GHz
Higher cut-off frequency 14.6 GHz 14.25 GHz
Bandwidth 6.7 GHz 5.9 GHz
Return loss -36.37 dB -35.11 dB
VSWR 1.0309 1.0358
Gain 6.33 dB 4.9 dB
Directivity 7.08 dBi 7.19 dBi

Table 4.2.2: Comparison between proposed design and references based relevant works

Parameters References Proposed

25 27 28 26 29
Bandwidth
2.14 1.48 .71 1.59 1.56 6.7
(GHz)
Return Loss -40.99 -42.23 -29.21 -17.14 -32.5 -36.37

Width(mm) N/A N/A 20 N/A 20 19

Length N/A N/A 14.6 N/A 20 13.8

Substrate
1.6 1.6 2.5 1.6 3 1.6
height (mm)
Gain (dB) 2.08 3.33 5.01 4.31 4.6 6.33
Directivity
3.46 5.57 No info 5.5 No info 7.08
(dBi)

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 CHAPTER 5
Conclusion & Future Works

5.1 Major Contributions of the Thesis

Patch antennas are widely used due to their low profile, small weight, and inexpensive cost.
They provide a number of benefits over traditional antennas. The two significant issues,
however, are limited bandwidth and low gain.

The narrow bandwidth and low gain challenge for a single band patch microstrip antenna has
been investigated in this thesis. Partial ground as well as inset slot cutting approach used to
increase its bandwidth. Because slot has an effect on the electromagnetic properties of the
host media, it has the potential to improve bandwidth and gain in antenna design. From the
RMPA to the suggested antenna, this thesis illustrates a gradual improvement in antenna
characteristics. All of the development process of the antenna has been briefly addressed, and
it function in the X and Ku band frequency range, allowing it to support advanced satellite
communication, satellite broadcasting, and other fascinating operations in this area. The
suggested antenna's bandwidth is primarily boosted by inset slot and partial ground, and it
can be further improved by inserting two rectangular slots and modifying the substrate
material. The antenna is 23.8 x 28.2 mm2 in size, with a substrate height of 1.6 mm. With
three resonance frequencies of 8.45 GHz, 9.95 GHz, and 13.17 GHz, the proposed single
element patch antenna covers the whole X band and lower portion of Ku band. At these
frequencies, the reflection coefficient or return loss is -25.23 dB, -36.37 dB, and -17.60 dB,
respectively, and the VSWR is less than 2 across the whole X band and lower portion of Ku
band. The structure's maximum gain and directivity are 6.33 dB and 7.08 dBi, respectively.

To verify the output, we had to compare it to two well-known programs Ansys HFSS and
CST Studio Suite. The return loss is nearly same, as is the gain. The VSWR value ranges
between 1 and 2. To understand the effects of various factors on each other in terms of

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bandwidth, return loss, gain, directivity, and size, a comparative research with current
literature was conducted. The outcomes of the results are positive and satisfying. In
comparison to previous antennas, the suggested proposed antenna shows promise in terms of
bandwidth coverage and gain characteristics. This proposed antenna can be employed in X
band and lower Ku band application.

5.2 Future Scope of Work

The influence of slot and rectangular slots on the bandwidth of a rectangular patch antenna
was investigated in this thesis. Future work could include experimenting with different slot
structures and modifying the antenna type (including antenna form and substrate dielectric).
To increase impedance bandwidth, an impedance matching network might be utilized.

Various techniques can also be used in future to design optimized antennas which are as
Follows:

• Split-Ring Resonator Structure (SRRS)

• Electromagnetic Band Gap Structure (EBG)

• Metamaterials

Fabrication of the antenna can be done in the future to observe their real-time performance.
The antenna structure is very simple and FR-4 Epoxy substrate is widely available. So it can
easily be manufactured with a very affordable cost. Other commonly used techniques on the
suggested antenna could be used to improve antenna characteristics further.

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