Microstrip Patch Array Antenna Technology for 122 GHz ISM Sensing Applications

Abstract:
Two different patch antenna arrays suitable for next generation sensing applications are presented on this paper. The antennas presented follow a low-cost design approach for their use in different commercial applications in the 122 GHz ISM band. Performance of both antennas is also compared. The serial configuration can be used as a scan-capable phased array. The planar structures are implemented on commercial RF Rogers substrate and are characterized using a WR6 waveguide to microstrip transition to allow repeatable and easy measurements. Results of radiation patterns and return loss are presented, showing a good matching and a good agreement between measurement and simulation. Gain for the arrays are between 5 dBi for the corporate version and 6 dBi in the case of the column. Bandwidth measured is more than 5 GHz, enough for future sensing applications in the 122 GHz ISM band.