Application of Genetic Algorithm in Tri-band U-slot Microstrip Antenna Design

In this research, a genetic algorithm combined with a method of moments (MoM) software were utilized to optimize a microstrip patch antenna with a complicated structure to achieve tri-band characteristic. The design consisted of a probe-fed air-substrate single-layer patch antenna loaded with three asymmetrical U-slots. When the three U-slots with appropriate dimensions were suitably placed on the patch, three desired bands formed. The optimal solution to the design problem was obtained by using the genetic algorithm. The optimization strategy and procedure used in this work are discussed. The simulation of the antenna operations was performed to verify the reliability of this optimization method. The proposed antenna provided three bands at 1.935 - 2.027 GHz, 2.59 - 2.705 GHz and 3.106 - 3.289 GHz with the maximum gains of 8.34, 8.75 and 7.56 dBi respectively, at the center frequencies of each band. The proposed antenna is applicable for WCDMA and WiMAX applications.