Enhanced performance aperture-coupled planar antenna array

摘要

A flat antenna is disclosed which consists of a substrate having applied thereto an electrically conductive elements, or patches, in a pattern and a metal layer having a slot pattern aligned with the patches, as well as a distribution network mounted on both sides thereof a layer of foamed material. The antenna further includes a reflector consisting of a metal plate. The external surface of the antenna, consisting of a glass substrate surface, can easily be cleaned. Such an antenna can be manufactured inexpensively by using glass and a foamed material. The various patch patterns can be created by screen printing or metallization. The propagation pattern may be shaped as desired the antenna constructed according to the present invention.