High-Resolution Microwave Imaging Antenna: A Square Patch UWB Design with GCPW Feed and FSS Integration

A novel design of an Ultra-wideband (UWB) antenna based on a grounded coplanar waveguide element, featuring an edge engraved square patch antenna is proposed. This antenna configuration integrates a square patch with carved corners as the primary radiating element, along with coplanar waveguide components and Frequency Selective Surface (FSS) elements. The coplanar waveguide elements and carved corners serve to enhance both impedance matching and radiation directivity in this prototype. To further augment gain, an 8×8-unit cell is positioned beneath the antenna. The FSS component is constructed through a combination of square and circular structures. The optimized dimensions of the proposed antenna measure 40×40×1.6 mm3, utilizing FR4 substrate material. Experimental validation confirms the performance of proposed design, with simulation outcomes closely reiterate measured results. The antenna exhibits resonant characteristics throughout the ultra-wideband frequency range of 1.9-14.4 GHz. The proposed edge-engraved square patch antenna exhibits a fractional bandwidth of 153.3% and a maximum efficiency of 96%, while the incorporation of FSS elements provides an average gain enhancement of 4 dBi and a peak gain of 9.6dBi observed across the UWB range.