Corners-slotted wideband patch antenna gain enhancement with a 3D dielectric lens for Ka-band satellite communication

To improve the gain of the corner-slotted, wideband microstrip patch antenna (MPA), a three-dimensional (3D) hemispherical dielectric lens (DL) and dielectric cylinder-based hybrid structure is introduced. DL is constructed and integrated on the surface of the patch antenna to increase the gain performance. Three-dimensional printing techniques contribute considerably to lens production. The 3D manufacturing technique provides greater freedom and versatility than conventional manufacturing methods. The DL increased the proposed single-patch antenna gain from 6.2 to 13.7 dBi with stable gain fluctuation in the working frequency spectrum spanning between 27.5 and 31 GHz. This implies a notable increase in gain of 7.5 dBi and a consistently uniform gain characteristic throughout a 5-GHz wide frequency range. Furthermore, the DL-loaded antenna parameters such as |S11|, gain (dBi), axial ratio (AR), radiation efficiency (%), and radiation patterns measured results are compared with simulated plots. Overall, the measured results agree well with the simulated findings. Based on the results, the compact antenna can be chosen for different wireless applications, especially for satellite communication in the proposed band. The Ka (27.5-31 GHz) spectrum in millimetre waves is highly considered for satellite communication due to the high data rate and channel capacity. A 3D dielectric lens is loaded to enhance the gain performance of a corner-slotted wideband and circularly polarized patch antenna. The DL increased the proposed single-patch antenna gain from 6.2 to 13.7 dBi with stable gain fluctuation in the working frequency spectrum spanning between 27.5 and 31 GHz. image