Ultra-wideband array antenna system for breast imaging

This paper reports the design of a circular array antenna for use in an ultra wideband microwave imaging system aimed at breast cancer detection and location. The array is formed by twelve UWB Tapered Slot Antennas operating over 3-11 GHz band. By using a fast electronic switching network accompanied by an additional mechanical movement of the array, a fast autonomous data gathering with a good angular resolution is achieved. To allow mono and partial multi-static operation, the elements of the array are activated by two, single pole multiple throw microwave coaxial switches connected to two ports of a vector network analyzer. The preliminary results are shown for a breast phantom that emulates human breast with three malignant bodies.