The experimental evaluation of flat periodic transmission lines for use as an information source in automated transportation systems

A brief summary of some past studies of the use of transmission lines as an information source for automated ground transportation systems is presented. One method, which involves the use of helically wound transmission lines, was found to be promising [6] but such lines are difficult to implement. Here the geometry-dependent properties of the magnetic-field distribution of flat periodic transmission lines is developed. It is found that such lines should be usable as a replacement for helically wound lines. The results of an experimental evaluation of several flat lines are presented with emphasis on triangular-shaped lines. It is found that the performance characteristics are even better than those of the helically wound line.