Performance of an embedded monopole antenna array in a UAV wing structure

In this work we present a small size, printed monopole antenna embedded within the wing structure of a small Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) and operating in the 2.4 GHz ISM band. Integration of antenna elements within UAV structures will reduce the weight and cost. Also, the use of embedded antenna arrays will increase the communication range and data throughput. 4-element and 8-element embedded uniform linear antenna arrays are modeled, simulated and studied. Simulation and measurement results for the resonant frequency of the basic element were performed. Results showing the HPBW and SLL of the simulation models for different excitations for the wing structure antenna array are presented and compared.