Aperture Coupled Microstrip Radiator: 3D Radiation Characteristics as a Function of Feed Mechanisms and Structural Variations

This work investigates the radiation performance of aperture coupled microstrip radiators as a function of feed mechanisms and structural variations, commonly overlooked by the antenna community. A C-band design has been examined using a commercial electromagnetic simulator, and the study helps in understanding the roles of the feeding network, mode of SMA attachments, and the ground plane size in controlling the radiation performances. This research should serve as helpful information for practicing engineers to design an antenna with optimum radiation characteristics.