Finite Difference Time Domain (FDTD) Analysis of a Leaky Traveling Wave Microstrip Antenna

摘要

This thesis provides the groundwork that will enable the development of a lightweight, inexpensive, aerodynamic, and broadband antenna. Whether for radar or communication, an antenna with these properties would be a force multiplier for the smaller, limited payload air vehicles the United States Air Force will pursue in the coming years. Several microstrip antennas using the first higher order mode were simulated with the Finite-Difference Time-Domain (FDTD) method. The propagation constant of each antenna was extracted from the resulting field distribution for comparison with a transverse resonance approximation, measured far-field patterns, and other simulated antennas. Variations of the geometry were explored to investigate field propagation, improve the far-field pattern, and improve bandwidth. A simplified fabrication method was demonstrated that shortens production time and improves the far- field pattern.