Fractal Inspired Hybrid Microstrip Patch Antenna for Surveillance Drone Applications

Abstract

Drone based surveillance and communication systems are playing a vital role in modern days for both military and civilian applications. Antennas with low profile, smaller size, and light weight are essential for the realization of these systems. A novel fractal-inspired hybrid microstrip patch antenna realized with Sierpinski gasket fractal slots cut in the radiating patch along with corresponding ground structure simultaneously defected with Sierpinski carpet fractal slots is reported for the first time. The antenna resonates at 2.4 GHz with a measured return loss of 17 dB, gain of 7 dB and measured 3 dB beamwidth is of the order of 70 deg. The current approach leads to the size reduction of the antenna to the extent of 55% in comparison to standard radiating patch antenna resonating at the same frequency. The fractal-inspired hybrid microstrip patch antenna is a promising candidate for drone-based surveillance and communication applications owing to its miniaturization and good directional radiation properties.