A Pattern Reconfigurable Quasi-Yagi Antenna Array for 3-D Full-Space Coverage

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Antenna Theory
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Reconfigurable antennas are crucial for modern wireless communication systems.
• Achieving 3-D full-space coverage with a single antenna element presents significant challenges.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a pattern reconfigurable quasi-Yagi antenna and array for 3-D full-space coverage.
• To enable seamless switching between omnidirectional and directional radiation patterns.

Main Methods:

• Design of a quasi-Yagi antenna element with hook-shaped patches, parallel-coupled branches, and a windmill-shaped ground.
• Integration of four diodes for pattern reconfiguration via switching operation states.
• Array configuration for azimuth and elevation plane pattern control.

Main Results:

• The antenna operates in omnidirectional mode (5.02-5.89 GHz, 0.8 dBi gain) and directional mode (4.93-5.81 GHz, 2.4 dBi gain).
• The array configuration achieves a peak gain of 4.9 dBi in directional mode and 3.1 dB pattern non-circularity in omnidirectional mode.
• Demonstrated 3-D full-space coverage through element selection and diode state switching.

Conclusions:

• The proposed reconfigurable antenna provides versatile radiation patterns for comprehensive spatial coverage.
• Its compact size, light weight, and excellent performance make it suitable for unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) applications.
• This antenna design advances the capabilities of adaptive antenna systems in wireless platforms.