Indian Journal of Science and Technology

Abstract

Background/Objectives: Vivaldi antenna is a prime candidate for wide band applications. This work involves a design of miniaturized tapered slot antenna operating with X-band frequency to achieve wide scan capability, wide beam, maximum gain and minimum return loss for active phased array antenna. Methods/Statistical Analysis: The design of Vivaldi Exponentially Tapered Slot Antenna (VETSA) and analysis of radiation patterns, return loss, beam width and scan angle are done through the use of electromagnetic simulation software HFSS. The analysis was carried out in 3D and 2D. Further, testing and measurement of fabricated Vivaldi antenna using Vector Network Analyzer and radiation patterns are observed in Anechoic Chamber. Design of linear array and planar array is also presented. Findings: VETSA satisfies the requirements on the maximum reflection coefficient < -10 dB for ±60^o scan from broadside in E-and H-planes. The realized antenna showed a symmetric pattern, minimum return loss, better 3-dB beam width in principal planes with gain of 3-dB, and VSWR ≤ 2 in X-band frequency. The result of linear array with 9-elements demonstrates good radiation characteristics with gain of 13 dB with low SLL including coupling effects in the X-band operating frequency. The uniformly illuminated array beam pattern shows that the array can scan over the desired scan volume of ±60^o in E-plane and ±55^o in H-plane. VETSA is a promising candidate to operate in wideband frequency with wide scanning performance in airborne radar applications. Application/Improvements: The designed antenna structure and array are good candidates and is expected to find applications in integration with monolithic millimeter-wave integrated circuits on combat aircraft.
Keywords: HFSS Software, Radar, Tapered Slot Antenna, Wideband, Widebeam