Pattern Reconfigurable Antenna for VANET, Wi-Fi, and WiMAX Wireless Communication Systems

Abstract

This work presents the design and analysis of a beam switching antenna for VANET, Wi-Fi, and WiMAX wireless communication systems. The proposed reconfigurable antenna is powered by a coaxial cable and consists of a circular patch, six fish-shaped radiating elements, and a circular planar ground. The antenna was constructed on a Rogers RT5880 substrate. Its dimensions are as follows: 0.81λ0 × 0.81λ0 × 0.03λ0. It performs six reconfigurable operating states, at the same frequency, by controlling the activation and deactivation of six PIN diodes to change the beam’s direction. A theoretical equivalent circuit model of the antenna is extracted. A progressive analysis of improving the antenna characteristic performances is provided. The bandwidth of the proposed antenna is 9.07% (measured), 9.62% (simulated), and 9.31% (theoretical). The designed antenna has a maximum gain of 9.57 dB for all pattern states and a superior efficiency ratio from 85% to 95% over the operating range (5.54 GHz–6.10 GHz). The proposed reconfigurable antenna is fabricated. Measured, simulated, and theoretical results are given and show good agreement, including reflection coefficient (S11) and radiation patterns.