Dual-key slot mmwave antenna array with dual-band performance at 28 GHz and 38 GHz using characteristic mode analysis

Area of Science:

• Electrical Engineering
• Electromagnetics
• Antenna Theory

Background:

• Millimeter-wave (mmWave) frequencies are crucial for next-generation wireless communication systems like 5G.
• Compact and efficient antenna solutions are required for space-constrained mobile devices.
• The Theory of Characteristic Modes (TCM) provides a robust framework for antenna analysis and design.

Purpose of the Study:

• To design, analyze, and validate a dual key-shaped antenna for 28/38 GHz mmWave applications.
• To investigate the characteristic modes influencing the antenna's dual-band performance.
• To develop a compact four-element linear array for enhanced gain and broader applicability.

Main Methods:

• Utilized the Theory of Characteristic Modes (TCM) for antenna design and analysis.
• Fabricated a prototype antenna and a four-element linear array on a 0.254 mm thick substrate.
• Performed in-house measurements to validate simulated performance characteristics.

Main Results:

• Achieved dual-band operation at 28 GHz (12.5% fractional bandwidth) and 38 GHz (21.05% fractional bandwidth).
• The four-element array demonstrated peak gains of 10.5 dBi at 28 GHz and 11 dBi at 38 GHz.
• Maintained over 75% radiation efficiency across both operating bands for the array.

Conclusions:

• The proposed dual key-shaped antenna and its array are suitable for 5G mmWave communication.
• The design offers a compact, efficient, and high-performance solution for 28/38 GHz wireless devices.
• The study validates the effectiveness of TCM in designing advanced mmWave antennas.