volume | PIER Journals

Abstract

A copper strip and conductive paint-based low profile stripped helical antenna for circular polarization over wide axial-ratio (AR) bandwidth are presented. Impacts of strip widths and geometric parameters of the helix on antenna performance (impedance bandwidth, reflection coefficient, AR, gain) are analyzed thoroughly. In terms of performance parameters, the proposed design is also compared with traditional designs of wire and strip-based helical antennas. Proper impedance matching in the proposed design is achieved by the non-conformal placement of the strip. For easing the fabrication complexity, the antenna is again simulated with a dielectric-based supportive structure, and the impact of this additional support is discussed. The antenna is then constructed on a 3D printed polylactic acid (PLA) based structure. Finally, the 1.3-turn strip-based helical antenna with a radius of 18 mm provided impedance and 3-dB AR bandwidths of 99% and 82.52%, respectively. The maximum gain of 9.40 dBi was found at 2.05 GHz in 3-dB AR bandwidth. The height of the presented antenna is 0.35 λ₀, where λ₀ is the free space wavelength at the frequency of 2.65 GHz. Low profile and wide AR bandwidth facilitate the use of this antenna in space communication.

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Dr. Purno Ghosh

Dr. Frances Harackiewicz