Lightweight L and S-band antenna fed by three-strip directional couplers

Abstract

Printed patch element are attractive from the electromagnetic point of view, however, their practical use often calls for involvement of layered composite panels. With such approach, patch elements can sustain mechanical loads or be integrated with antenna array carrying platforms. Owing to a lightweight multilayer structure with a thin substrate atop the thick one, the three-strip couplers put a lot of comfort in design of such antenna arrays. Wideband operation and low losses attract further attention to this coupler type as a good candidate for uses in antenna arrays. Dimensioning of the couplers are convenient for practical utilization in lower microwave bands. Furthermore, three-strip couplers make possible switching signals between printed circuit layers.