Mutual coupling reduction between finite spaced planar antenna elements using modified ground structure

Abstract

In this paper, a modified ground structure capable of reducing mutual coupling to provide isolation between adjacent antenna elements is presented. The proposed modified ground structure is a combination of a strategically located ground slot, asymmetric partial ground and a substrate-integrated pin wall. The use of the modified ground structure causes a more than 28 dB (measured value) mutual coupling reduction. The modified ground structure has been optimized and validated with a finite spaced planar 2 × 1 antenna array operating at 4.16 GHz, intended for unmanned aerial vehicle radar altimeter applications. The patch antennas built with the MGS exhibit high gain (greater than 6 dBi throughout the operational band), along with inter-element coupling as low as −65 dB. Mutual coupling reduction at lower contours is beneficial for altimeter applications.