A multi-layer circularly polarized microstrip patch antenna with proximity coupling and increased gain

A three-layer circularly polarized microstrip, antenna using proximity coupling and exhibiting increased gain at 2.56 GHz has been presented. While the bandwidth has been increased over previous work, it is still relatively low, which limits applications of the antenna to those requiring smaller bandwidths. The stacked element was also applied in a 21-element array. Since the system is planned for Ka-band, the element was scaled to 32 GHz and simulated using commercial software. A description of the single stacked element is presented, and measured and calculated results at 2.56 GHz are given. Also included are measured results for the array, and calculated results of a stacked element for the required frequency-scaled version at 32 GHz.