Antenna design using rigorous hybrid finite element computational toolsets

Summary form only given. We present examples that demonstrate a successful integration of robust conformal antenna modeling with optimization algorithms (statistical and gradient based). We present various layered artificial substrate configurations for enhancing the performance of printed antenna and array configurations. Among them are layered bandgap configurations to serve as frequency selective volumes, and multifunctional arrays on layered artificial dielectrics to substantially enhance their bandwidth characteristics. We further discuss future techniques such as the homogenization design method (HDM) for designing new artificial material for electromagnetic applications. HDM has recently been used for low frequency (motor) designs, but can be equally successful for high frequency and microwave applications.