Design of a Compact Antenna using Particle Swarm Optimization for the Entire Milli-meter Wave Range

Abstract

Previous research in millimeter-wave antenna technology has focused on designs for specific frequency bands, such as 28 GHz, 32 GHz, 60 GHz, and 78 GHz. This paper analyzes an asymmetric dual-step antipodal petunia-shaped antenna capable of operating across the entire mm-wave frequency range from 30 GHz to 300 GHz. In the initial phase, a K-Band antenna is designed using various single radiators, including shapes such as a ball, balloon, axle, and petunia, in conjunction with a rectangular ground structure. A single radiator petunia design is enhanced to become a dual antipodal petunia radiator to achieve higher operating frequencies. This antipodal design generates multiple resonances at adjacent frequencies, resulting in broadband characteristics. To further improve performance, modifications are made to the ground structure. A novel technique inspired by radiation contouring of the antenna is proposed, which enhances impedance matching and overall antenna performance. Subsequently, a dual antipodal petunia radiator with an asymmetric step ground is optimized using the particle swarm optimization method to cover the entire millimeter-wave band (30–300 GHz). The antenna's physical dimensions are 30x30 mm2, with a peak gain of 6 dBi and radiation efficiency ranging from 89% to 92% across the entire mm-wave spectrum. Notably, this proposed antenna exhibits an exceptionally low level of side lobes and excellent cross-polar discrimination, showcasing its unique design. The potential applications of this antenna span various fields, including military and imaging systems, automotive radar, telecommunications, remote sensing, security screening, and energy harvesting technology.