Designing a miniature antenna that is electrically small and still has sufficient gain has been a challenging yet desirable objective in low-observable and conformal applications. Conventional means of antenna miniaturization utilize dielectric loading that leads to undesired impedance change and dielectric-air boundary, which either compromises antenna performance or makes it difficult to operate. Dielectric loading also adds volume and weight. In this study, a novel alternative approach to antenna miniaturization utilizing an artificial transmission line (ATL) structure with its impedance and wave velocity controlled by distributed reactive elements is explored. First, the slow-wave phenomena and impedance control in ATL will be demonstrated. Then, miniaturization of a resonating structure will be presented. Finally the application of ATL on antenna structure will be demonstrated. The proposed miniaturization approach is inherently suitable for broadband miniature antenna designs, such as spiral antennas, and provides additional design degrees of freedom.
For information about ESL Student Presentations contact Ryan Chilton.
For more information about other ESL Student body events, contact Yakub Bayram.