Antenna Efficiency Research Articles

Evolutionary optimisation of pixelated IFA inspired antennas

As wireless communication systems increasingly require compact and efficient antennas, conventional antenna design methods are proving difficult to meet the rigorous demands of modern applications. For this purpose, this study introduces a methodology which uses pixelated Inverted-F Antenna (IFA) inspired designs optimised through genetic algorithms to enhance performance in constrained spatial environments. As pixels the antenna features the exemplary use of Einstein Hat-shaped tiles, enabling the antenna to efficiently utilize space. A with the proposed method optimised antenna is compared to traditional IFA designs and shows improved properties like enhanced antenna gain and efficiency as well as smaller reflection coefficient offering a promising solution for future compact antenna systems in the Internet of Things and beyond. Finally, a prototype was manufactured and the scattering parameters and antenna gain were measured within an anechoic chamber.

Response study of impact of slot area variation in miniature antenna for Kurtz-Above band applications in 5G/6G wireless communication

Modern fifth-generation/sixth generation (5G/6G) wireless demand for efficient miniature antenna. To fulfill these demands here efforts have been made using high frequency structure simulator software (HFSS) to design a compact microstrip patch antenna (MPA). The design of the antenna consisted of two slots- one located near the feed line and the other one at the opposite side of the feed line. The volumetric dimension of the proposed antenna was 13.2 mm x 11.4 mm x 1.6 mm, designed at resonant frequency 33 GHz, employing 1.6 mm thick Rogers RT Duroid 5880 substrate having dielectric constant 2.2 and loss tangent 0.0013. A transmission line having a length of 5.7 mm and a width of 2 mm was used to excite the antenna for electromagnetic radiation fields. Antenna parameters simulation results were obtained for different slot areas, keeping other design parameters like dimensions of ground, patch, substrate, and feed port fixed. Different slot areas were selected by changing slot width, keeping its length constant. A gain of 7.7 dB with voltage standing wave ratio (VSWR) of 1.9 and return loss (S11) -19.23 dB was obtained for slot width 3 mm and area 1.5 mm2. The directivity of the antenna was reported as 5.7dB, with a very good surface current density of 104.94 Amp/m, considered sufficient in the fringing fields breaking situation. Bandwidth was found to be inversely proportional to slot width. VSWR, S11, and 3D gain showed inverse dependence on slot area. Gain and S11 change in direct proportion to feed width whereas VSWR changes inversely with feed length. The proposed MPA is suitable for satellites, mobile phones, wireless communication systems, and remote sensing applications.

Metasurface inspired printed dual‑port MIMO antenna system with LP to CP conversion features for millimeter wave n260 band applications

A cutting-edge antenna system has been developed for new radio (NR) millimeter wave operating from 36.0 to 40.0 GHz frequency range 2 (FR 2) n260 band applications. This innovative system incorporates metasurface-inspired printed dual-port MIMO technology, which includes LP to CP conversion features. The positional orientation of the elements of the MIMO antenna with stacked metasurface provoked the spatial diversity. To convert linearly polarised (LP) waves to circularly polarised (CP) waves, the metasurface layer is suspended above the MIMO antenna. LP to CP polarisation conversion occurs when the conducting strip and rectangular space between strips on the substrate generate π/2 phase-shifted electric field components (Ex and Ey). The proposed stepped impedance-fed antenna elements and metasurface are fabricated on commercially available high-frequency laminates using a double-layer printed circuit board (PCB) fabrication facility. The test findings exhibit a satisfactory level of concurrence with the calculated/measured findings regarding scattering parameters, diversity performance parameters, and realized gain. The result is a highly efficient and versatile antenna system that is ideal for advanced engineering applications.

Efficient MIMO Antenna Design Using Metamaterials for Compact and High-Performance Communication Applications

Efficient MIMO Antenna Design Using Metamaterials for Compact and High-Performance Communication Applications

Compact Ultra-Wideband MIMO Antenna for 5G Communication Systems

Ultra-wideband (UWB) technology is highly respected in modern communication systems because it can enable high-speed, high-data-rate communication over short distances. It is still difficult to achieve optimal multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) performance in real-world multipath settings, even with breakthroughs in traditional antenna designs. UWB-MIMO antenna solutions have been created and simulated in order to address this problem and fulfill present demands. Nevertheless, maintaining high antenna efficiency and the requirement for antenna designs tailored to a particular bandwidth are two of the difficulties UWB systems must overcome. Recently, a variety of optimization strategies have been employed to obtain high gain and UWB performance by fine-tuning antenna characteristics. The major obstacles are resolved by the optimization process, including the time and computational resource requirements. The difficulty is further compounded by the intricacy of accurately modifying antenna settings to maximize gain. A multi-objective advancement for the design and improvement of the reduced UWB-MIMO test radio wire for 5G was offered as a solution to these problems. In order to attain the UWB feature, we first aim to use a single elliptical-square form antenna that operates from 3.4 to 70 GHz with isolation larger than 29.54 dB. Furthermore, we optimize the impedance bandwidth by tuning the parameters of the structural dimensions using the improved proportional topology optimization (IPTO) technique. Additionally, we present the orthogonal correction using the binarized convolutional neural network (BCNN).

Machine learning-based technique for directivity prediction of a compact and highly efficient 4-port MIMO antenna for 5G millimeter wave applications

Miniaturized Millimeter Wave (mm-wave) MIMO antenna arrays with an observed 10-dB impedance broad bandwidth of 3.7 GHz (25.785–29.485) are the focus of this study's design and analysis for a 5G application. Rogers RT/duroid 5880, a low-loss dielectric material, is utilized in the antenna's fabrication. For MIMO antenna design down to the lowest frequency, the substrate and ground must have dimensions of 3.3λ0 × 3.3λ0. Besides compact, the suggested design has a supreme gain of 8.9 dB, isolation greater than 29.24, and a maximum efficiency rating of 98.4 %. A Diversity Gain (DG) has a value that is greater than 9.99, whereas an Envelope Correlation Coefficient ECC) has a value that is less than 0.00005. The effectiveness of machine learning (ML) models can be estimated using a variety of different metrics, including the variance score, R square, mean square error (MSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and root mean square error (RMSE). Out of the five ML models, the one that has the greatest accuracy and has a low margin of error when predicting directivity is the Random Forest Regression model. In conclusion, the data from the CST and ADS modeling as well as the actual and expected outcomes from machine learning demonstrate that the recommended antenna is a potential candidate for use with 5G.

De-etiolation is Almost Colour Blind: the Study of Photosynthesis Awakening Under Blue and Red Light.

The synthesis and assembly of functioning photosynthetic complexes in chloroplasts developing from etioplasts during the de-etiolation of angiosperm seedlings are imperative for the plant's autotrophic lifestyle. This study compared de-etiolation process under monochromatic red or blue light of equal photon flux density during a 24-hour illumination period of etiolated Arabidopsis seedlings. The aim was to elucidate the impact of these light wavelength on the etioplast-to-chloroplast transformation and the initiation of light-dependent photosynthetic reactions. Both treatments lead to the formation of functional young chloroplasts; however, the etioplast-to-chloroplast transition and the assembly of photosynthetic complexes occurred unevenly, with individual steps tuned by red or blue light. Ultrastructural analysis suggested faster prolamellar bodies disassembly under blue light, while low temperature fluorescence studies indicated a slower transformation of protochlorophyllide to chlorophyllide, and chlorophyll a, under these conditions. Red light further promoted the synthesis of chlorophyll b and LHCII antenna proteins. However, the efficiency of antennae in dissipating excess absorbed energy was higher for seedlings de-etiolated under blue light; the maximum quantum yield of the photosystem II reached 0.81 after 24-hour de-etiolation, equivalent to mature plants. Blue light seemed to enhance the development of well-functioning photosystems (I and II) and antennae. These findings are important for gaining a deeper understanding of photoreceptor regulation of de-etiolation and for utilizing selected light regimes to improve crop yield.

Origami folding pattern development for gossamer structures

Gossamer structures for satellites are large, thin deployable structures that are attractive for space applications because they can be stowed compactly for transportation and deployed to have large functional surface areas. Reflectarray antennas, in particular, are candidates for gossamer structures because they can be realized on thin membranes. However, the efficiency of reflectarray antennas decreases with any deviations from a flat plane, including those induced by plastically deformed creases. Rolling membranes can prevent some plastic deformation, but requires relative slipping between layers that are rolled together. In this work, we describe, analyze, and demonstrate two rolled configurations for deployable gossamer structures based on a combination of rolled and folded membranes and surrogate folds that allow for sliding between layers. Cuts and Step Hinges are used as surrogate folds. Step Hinges connect membranes while limiting slipping motion in a single direction and reducing wrinkling in the structure. The combination of folding, rolling, and sliding connections reduces plastic deformation while providing a highly efficient packing of the stowed form.

High radiation efficiency and tunable resonance planar double-turn spiral antenna for manipulation of nitrogen-vacancy centers.

Nitrogen-vacancy (NV) centers in diamond are promising quantum sensors, where microwave antennas play a crucial role in manipulating the spin states accurately. Conventional microwave antennas often struggle to balance radiation efficiency and bandwidth. To address this challenge, we design a planar double-turn spiral antenna (PDTSA), based on the ring microstrip antenna (RMA). PDTSA demonstrates an ∼4.5-fold increase in radiation efficiency compared to RMA. In addition, the PDTSA allows linear tunability of the resonance frequency up to 500MHz by adjusting the spiral input length. This feature addresses the limitations of a narrow working frequency range, which are typically caused by the narrowband in high-radiation-efficiency antennas. The experimental results show that at an absolute input power of 1W, the PDTSA increases the Rabi frequency from 1.72 to 8.06MHz compared to the RMA. This enhancement accelerates quantum state manipulation and reduces phase accumulation errors. These characteristics make PDTSA suitable for applications in quantum sensing and precision measurements using NV centers.

Frequency Stirring Effects on Reference Antenna Efficiency Measurements in Reverberation Chambers

Frequency Stirring Effects on Reference Antenna Efficiency Measurements in Reverberation Chambers

Dual-Band Passive Beam Steering Antenna Technologies for Satellite Communication and Modern Wireless Systems: A Review.

Efficient beam steerable high-gain antennas enable high-speed data rates over long-distance networks, including wireless backhaul, satellite communications (SATCOM), and SATCOM On-the-Move. These characteristics are essential for advancing contemporary wireless communication networks, particularly within 5G and beyond. Various beam steering solutions have been proposed in the literature, with passive beam steering mechanisms employing planar metasurfaces emerging as cost-effective, power-efficient, and compact options. These attributes make them well-suited for use in confined spaces, large-scale production and widespread distribution to meet the demands of the mass market. Utilizing a dual-band antenna terminal setup is often advantageous for full duplex communication in wireless systems. Therefore, this article presents a comprehensive review of the dual-band beam steering techniques for enabling full-duplex communication in modern wireless systems, highlighting their design methodologies, scanning mechanisms, physical characteristics, and constraints. Despite the advantages of planar metasurface-based beam steering solutions, the literature on dual-band beam steering antennas supporting full duplex communication is limited. This review article identifies research gaps and outlines future directions for developing economically feasible passive dual-band beam steering solutions for mass deployment.

A systematic review of design and performance enhancement techniques for the reduction of radar cross section in multiple input multiple output antennas

multiple-input multiple-output technology has emerged as a pivotal solution for addressing the capacity constraints of high-speed broadband wireless networks. By employing multiple antennas at both the transmitter and receiver, multiple-input multiple-output significantly enhances wireless communication efficiency. This paper presents a comprehensive review of multiple-input multiple-output antenna design strategies tailored for fifth-generation (5 G) networks and beyond. Specifically, it critically examines methodologies aimed at mitigating radar cross section in multiple-input multiple-output antennas, a crucial aspect of antenna engineering, especially in scenarios requiring reduced detectability. Various design and performance enhancement techniques proposed in the literature for RCS reduction in multiple-input multiple-output antennas are systematically analyzed, focusing on aspects such as antenna geometry and materials methods. Synthesizing these findings provides valuable insights into the current state of research, highlighting advancements, challenges, and future directions in developing efficient multiple-input multiple-output antennas with minimized radar cross section. This review contributes to antenna technology by aiding researchers and practitioners in informed decision-making regarding radar cross section reduction techniques for multiple-input multiple-output systems, and it identifies innovative approaches pertinent to multiple-input multiple-output applications. Finally, key considerations in multiple-input multiple-output antenna design are addressed, proposing potential directions for future research and development initiatives.

Machine learning technique based highly efficient slotted 4-port MIMO antenna using decoupling structure for sub-THz and THz 6G band applications

Machine learning technique based highly efficient slotted 4-port MIMO antenna using decoupling structure for sub-THz and THz 6G band applications

Circular Microstrip Antennas in 5G: Evaluating Metamaterial Integration

The rapid emergence of Fifth-Generation (5G) technologies necessitate the development of highly efficient antenna systems with compact design that can support Ultra-Wideband (UWB) frequencies. This work presents the design and enhancement of a Circular Microstrip Antenna (CMSA) for 5G UWB applications using metamaterials. The study focuses on the design of CMSA and the integration of a Complementary Split-Ring Resonator (CSRR) into the circular patch of the CMSA. The design is simulated using Computer Simulation Technology (CST) Studio 2023. The system design without metamaterials achieved a gain of 5.28 dBi and a bandwidth of 353.0 MHz. The integration of the CSRR led to an improvement in gain, 5.39 dBi at 3.8 GHz, which is above most of the literature reviewed, although there was a slight reduction in bandwidth to 135.2 MHz. The objectives of achieving a CMSA design with a gain between 5 to 10 dBi while maintaining a compact size were accomplished. Despite the slight reduction in bandwidth observed when integrating the CSRR into the CMSA, the overall results highlight the significant role metamaterials played in enhancing the performance of microstrip antennas for 5G technology applications.

Dual-Band Monopole MIMO Antenna Array for UAV Communication Systems.

This study proposes a compact, low-profile, four-port dual-band monopole multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) antenna array for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) communication systems. Each monopole antenna of the array features a modified T-shaped radiator configuration and is printed on a Rogers RT5880 substrate with compact dimensions of 134.96 mm × 134.96 mm × 0.8 mm. A four-element square MIMO configuration with sequential 0°, 90°, 180°, and 270° rotations was integrated smoothly into the UAV body. A prototype of the MIMO array was fabricated and experimentally evaluated, with measured results showing a close correlation to simulated results. The proposed dual-band monopole antenna demonstrated one of the widest impedance bandwidths of 46.15% at 2.4 GHz (2.04 to 3.25 GHz) IEEE 802.11b and 31.85% at 5.8 GHz (5.37 to 7.38 GHz) IEEE 802.11a on a thin 0.0064 λo substrate while achieving high transmission efficiency. The isolation of the proposed four-port MIMO design was measured at 23 dB at 2.4 GHz and 19 dB at 5.8 GHz. The MIMO array's total efficiency of each monopole antenna was measured at 96% at 2.4 GHz and 89% at 5.8 GHz. The design has measured diversity parameters such as an ECC below 0.01 and a DG of approximately 10. Based on these results, the proposed design suits the UAV communication system.

Supramolecular light-harvesting systems utilizing tetraphenylethylene chromophores as antennas.

Efficient utilization of light energy is crucial for various technological applications ranging from solar energy conversion to optoelectronic devices. Supramolecular light-harvesting systems (LHS) have emerged as promising platforms for enhancing light absorption and energy transfer process. In this Feature Article, we highlight the utilization of tetraphenylethylene (TPE) chromophores as antennas in supramolecular assemblies for light harvesting applications. TPE, as an archetypal aggregation-induced emission (AIE) chromophore, offers unique advantages such as high photostability and efficient light-harvesting capabilities upon self-assembly. We discuss the design principles and synthetic strategies employed to construct supramolecular assemblies incorporating TPE chromophores, elucidating their roles as efficient light-harvesting antennas. Furthermore, we delve into the mechanisms governing energy transfer processes within these assemblies, such as Förster resonance energy transfer (FRET). The potential applications of these TPE-based supramolecular systems in various fields, including photocatalysis, reactive oxygen species generation, optoelectronic devices and sensing, are explored. Finally, we provide insights into future directions and challenges in the development of next-generation supramolecular LHSs utilizing TPE chromophores.

Shaping the RF Transmit Field in 7T MRI Using a Nonuniform Metasurface Constructed of Short Conducting Strips.

The ability of metamaterial structures to offer unique properties and new solutions has opened new avenues in a wide range of applications, including super-resolution in optics and efficient antennas in radiofrequency (RF) engineering. In magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), metamaterials hold the promise of increasing the RF magnetic field intensity while minimizing power deposition. Here, we propose a metasurface based on a two-dimensional (2D) array of short conducting strips combined with a high dielectric substrate, which was tuned to operate at ultrahigh field 7T human MRI. While studied in optics and electromagnetics in the GHz-to-THz range, this study is the first to design such a metasurface for proton imaging at 7T MRI. We performed electromagnetic (EM) simulation of the brain MRI setup with the new metasurface placed in the proximity to the temporal lobe, which showed 2.2-fold local increase in the RF transmit efficiency, with superior performance than an array of electric dipoles. In this study, we also investigate the effect of the spatial distribution of the subunits to control the target RF field's distribution. While the common design is based on a uniform distribution of the subunits, nonuniform distribution, such as a denser center (convex) or more condensed edges (concave), provides an extra dimension to tailor both the magnetic and electric fields. The concave distribution achieved 1.5-1.8-fold reduction in the power deposition compared to the uniform distribution in the brain MRI setups examined.

Questions of the functional efficiency of medical radiothermograph antennas

Questions of the functional efficiency of medical radiothermograph antennas

Twelve-Element MIMO Wideband Antenna Array Operating at 3.3 GHz for 5G Smartphone Applications

This work presents a 12-element multiple-input–multiple-output (MIMO) wideband antenna array for mobile smartphones. The antenna element is mainly composed of two parts, greatly improving the antenna array bandwidth: one is a meandering, looped radiating element and the other is a U-shaped slot. For the antenna element design, the meandering, looped radiating element measures 12.95 × 6 mm2, while the U-shaped slot has a size of 15 × 3 mm2. Meanwhile, the reflection coefficient indicates that the designed antenna array operates at 3.3 GHz with a bandwidth of 500 MHz; the transmission coefficient shows that the isolation between the antenna elements is better than 12 dB. In addition, more antenna array performances are presented, including nearly omnidirectional radiation characteristics, antenna efficiency ranging from approximately 17 to 60%, envelope correlation coefficients (ECCs) below 0.065, and diversity gain (DG) values of the MIMO antenna system close to 10 dB. The measurement results are highly consistent with the simulation results of the designed wideband antenna array, indicating its great potential for future practical engineering applications.

Design of Microstrip Patch Antenna for WSN Application

Abstract: This paper focuses on the design and simulation of a microstrip patch antenna for Wireless Sensor Network (WSN) applications, utilizing HFSS (High-Frequency Structure Simulator) software and an FR-4 epoxy substrate. The objective is to develop an efficient and cost-effective antenna tailored for the 2.4 GHz frequency band, commonly used in WSNs due to its favourable propagation characteristics. The choice of FR-4 epoxy substrate, with a relative dielectric constant (ࡾࢿ (of 4.4 provides a balance of performance, availability, and cost-effectiveness. These properties are crucial in determining the antenna's resonant frequency and overall efficiency. The design process involves optimizing the dimensions of the rectangular microstrip patch antenna to achieve the desired frequency and performance metrics. HFSS simulation tools are employed to model the antenna's behaviour, allowing for precise adjustments and performance predictions. Key parameters analysed include return loss (S11), gain, radiation pattern, and bandwidth.