Expanding Frequency Tunability in Small Singleband and Multiband Antennas Using Ground Plane Modifications
Abstract
In the past, several research groups have addressed antenna frequency reconfigurability in many forms and with several different tuning mechanisms . Some of this research has demonstrated that integration of tuning elements into small antennas poses particularly significant challenges, because if the tuning element requires additional bias lines, the interaction between the bias lines and the desired antenna structure can prevent or disturb the desired behavior. Moreover, recent work in this area indicates that the ground planes of these unique antennas could be used to achieve increases in instantaneous bandwidth that can be leveraged during pre-deployment manual tuning. This proposal outlines planned activities in two complementary areas. The first area will determine new ways to achieve desired pre-deployment frequency tunability and bandwidth performance in small antennas through ground plane/counterpoise modifications. The second, complementary area will investigate methodologies for integration of active, post-deployment frequency tuning in small antennas, with both single and multiband behavior. Careful analysis and design will define the tradeoffs of different design approaches so that new elements and tuning mechanisms can be implemented quickly by antenna designers without the need for numerous simulations or optimizations. Along with design guidelines prototypes will be simulated, fabricated, and tested and provided to government collaborator upon request.
Document Details
- Document Type
- DoD Grant Award
- Publication Date
- Feb 14, 2019
- Source ID
- W911NF1810173
Entities
People
- Jennifer T. Bernhard
Organizations
- Army Contracting Command
- National Security Agency
- University of Illinois Urbana–Champaign