Abstract
Millimeter wave antennas have applications in several sensing and communication systems. Such antennas, designed for modern miniaturized devices and systems, must be low profile, flexible, and low cost. Some applications also require beam steering for detection purposes. Combining all these features into an antenna system and delivering decent antenna performance is challenging. In this study, we combined a partially reflective surface with a parasitic patch array to create a simple beam-switching, low-profile, and flexible wearable detection system. To ensure lower costs as well as compatibility with wearable systems, screen printing was utilized on a flexible substrate. The antenna array was optimized for the 77 GHz band and had a high gain of 11.2 dBi. The designed system has three independent beams, which can be oriented from bore-sight to ±32° through a simple switching mechanism. The antenna array maintains its performance in both flat and flexed conditions. Finally, the antenna array was tested in the field to successfully detect objects moving in three different directions.
Highlights
M ILLIMETER-wave antennas are required for a wide range of applications, such as 5G communication, radio frequency (RF) identification, automotive radars, and more
This paper presents a beam-switching parasitic antenna array that is loaded with a partially reflective surface (PRS)
The low profile, flexibility, narrow beamwidth, simple beam-switching mechanism, and low cost are features of the proposed design that are attractive for various wearable sensing applications
Summary
M ILLIMETER (mm)-wave antennas are required for a wide range of applications, such as 5G communication, radio frequency (RF) identification, automotive radars, and more. One possible application for such wearable sensing systems is to provide assistance to visually impaired people when walking [1] Such antennas require either multidirectional beams or certain types of beam switching or steering. The parasitic antenna array-based beam-switching mechanism is simpler and has lower loss, it has the disadvantages of a wide beamwidth and lower directivity. Because of these design choices (i.e., a parasitic array and PRS), the antenna system is low profile It was realized on a flexible substrate to enhance its suitability for wearable applications. The low profile, flexibility, narrow beamwidth (i.e., high directivity), simple beam-switching mechanism, and low cost are features of the proposed design that are attractive for various wearable sensing applications
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
