Objectives: To design a hex band microstrip envelope patch antenna that would serve multiple space applications including radio astronomy, space research, aviation communication, RF devices, ISM equipment, amateur radio, satellite communications, mobile except aeronautical mobile and fixed microwave.
Methods/Statistical analysis: The proposed geometry utilizes numerical Finite Element Method that would subdivide a large problem into smaller, simple parts, called finite elements. The simple equations modelling these finite elements are finally grouped into a system of larger equations that would model the entire problem. FEM next uses various methods from the calculus of variations to approximate a solution by minimizing an associated error function. The proposed antenna geometry uses a FR4 epoxy substrate with aprobe feeding technique. The design has been analysed in terms of reflection coefficient, bandwidth, radiation pattern, gain, directivity, and VSWR and field patterns.
Findings: Using HFSS based on FEM, the design has been analysed in several aspects. Compared to both single band rectangular and circular reference MSA’s, the proposed multi band design offers highly improved characteristics as listed in Table
Application/Improvements: The structure is suited for multi band applications. The 110 MHz bandwidth extending from 4.99 GHz to 5.1 GHz may be used for radio astronomy, space research and aviation communication (radio location and radio navigation), 160 MHz bandwidth of 5.66 GHz to 5.82 GHz may be utilised for RF devices, ISM equipment and amateur radio. The 300 MHz bandwidth extending from 7.47 GHz to 7.77 GHz may be used for satellite communication, the 900 MHz bandwidth extending from 9.02 GHz to 9.92 GHz can be put forth to radio location and aeronautical radio navigation applications and finally the 260 MHz bandwidth of 11.29 GHz to 11.55 GHz can be used for mobile except aeronautical mobiles and fixed microwave.
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