Dual-mode microstrip leaky-wave antenna for pattern diversity application.

Area of Science:

• Electromagnetics and Wave Propagation
• Antenna Theory and Design
• Microwave Engineering

Background:

• Conventional single-mode microstrip leaky-wave antennas (LWAs) have limitations in beam control.
• Dual-beam radiation offers enhanced spatial coverage and flexibility in antenna applications.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design and demonstrate a dual-mode microstrip leaky-wave antenna (LWA) capable of radiating either a single beam or dual symmetrical beams.
• To investigate the underlying principles of odd and even modes for achieving distinct radiation patterns.

Main Methods:

• Analysis of electric-field distributions and dispersion curves for odd and even modes.
• Design of a mode translator for efficient excitation of both modes.
• Simulation, fabrication, and measurement of the proposed dual-mode LWA.

Main Results:

• The dual-mode LWA successfully achieved single-beam scanning from 39° to 64° (4.5–5.0 GHz).
• Dual symmetrical beam scanning was realized from 44° to 60° (4.5–4.9 GHz).
• Simulated results showed excellent agreement with experimental measurements.

Conclusions:

• The proposed dual-mode microstrip LWA effectively provides dual-beam capabilities.
• The odd and even modes are crucial for achieving versatile radiation patterns in LWAs.
• The designed mode translator ensures efficient excitation for practical applications.