Ultra-wideband printed half-crescent patch antennas

In this paper, a miniaturized ultra- wideband half-crescent patch antenna is proposed and studied. Its radiating element consists of a semi-elliptical patch with a semi-circular cutout, and recedes into a semi-elliptical patch when the radius of the cutout is zero. The antenna is miniaturized, designed with a simple microstrip feeding, and is unique for its simple dipole-like configuration. The test results show 10 dB return loss within the 3.1-10.6 GHz band, with a good antenna gain and desirable radiation characteristics. Parametric study of the effects of the cutout radius on the antenna radiation characteristics is also presented. A spherical wave (or multi-pole) expansion analysis is used to characterize the antenna and gain physical insights into its radiation properties. A design formula of the antenna dimensions is also provided.