A Novel SIW Leaky-Wave Antenna for Continuous Beam Scanning from Backward to Forward

Abstract

A novel, periodic, leaky-wave array antenna using substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) technology is proposed for continuous beam scanning applications. For this purpose, a periodic structure with the ability to radiate from backward to forward is proposed. The unit cell of this periodic structure includes a longitudinal slot and an H-plane discontinuity. The H-plane step discontinuity is suggested to suppress the open stopband (OSB) and enable continuous beam scanning from backward to forward through the broadside. The impedance matching technique is used to suppress the open stopband. In contrast to phased array antennas, this form of antenna is distinguished by its ability to scan without requiring a complex feeding network. These antennas are used for different factors such as scanning the beam, determining the direction of arrival, avoiding collisions, indoor communications, etc. A prototype of the proposed antenna was fabricated for experimental characterization. The overall physical dimensions of the fabricated antenna are 7.9 mm × 128 mm. The results demonstrate that an adequate level of agreement between measurement and simulation is satisfactory. The results indicate that the suggested antenna can scan continuously in the frequency range of 14.5 to 22.5 GHz between −60 and +57.5 degrees through broadside with a maximum gain of 16 dBi and radiation efficiency of 71%.