A novel theory for dielectric inset waveguide leaky-wave antennas

An accurate analysis and detailed characterization of a leaky-wave antenna based on a metal-strip-loaded dielectric inset waveguide are presented. A detailed parametric analysis is presented, illustrating how the various parameters can affect its characteristics. In addition, an example of how the insight gained through this analysis permits one to design structures with a prescribed behavior is given. The analysis performed and the results obtained indicate that this class of antennas exhibits a significant degree of flexibility in terms of achievable electric characteristics. This feature and its inherent mechanical simplicity make the structure analyzed a very promising candidate for millimeter-wave antenna applications.<>