Design of an antipodal vivaldi antenna focusing on constructional aspects

Abstract

This paper presents an Antipodal Vivaldi Antenna (AVA) design, focusing on its constructional aspects. The main features analysed are the connector attachment structure and the introduction of a polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) part that supports the antenna laminate. Issues related to dielectric penetration by milling tools are also addressed. The proposed AVA was manufactured through a low-cost prototyping process and tested, achieving an operational bandwidth from 5 to 18 GHz for a reflection coefficient less than -10 dB and an average gain of 6.23 dBi. The prototype meets all design requirements, which shows the viability of the developed radiator.