Double-Layer Microstrip Antenna Integrated With Solar Cells

A low-profile broadband double-layer microstrip antenna is presented for green mobile communications. Eight solar cells are adopted for the top radiation structure, which can also improve the antenna performance. The antenna height is 0.071 λ
₀
(λ
₀
is the wavelength of 2.2 GHz in free space) with a measured −10 dB bandwidth from 1.65–2.76 GHz, so the mobile communication band from 1.71 to 2.69 GHz has been covered. Boresight radiation patterns are realized with an average gain of 8.27 dBi and measured radiation efficiency of more than 80% within the target band. This dual-function device can be a competitive candidate for green low-carbon communication systems.