Printed antennas: from theory to praxis, challenges and applications

[摘要] Miniaturized, highly integrated wireless communication systems are used inmany fields like logistics and mobile communications. Often multiple antennastructures are integrated in a single product. To achieve such a high levelof integration the antenna structures are manufactured e.g. from flexibleboards or via LDS (laser direct structuring) which allows the production ofcomplex monopole or dipole antennas with three-dimensionally curved shapes.Main drawbacks are the sophisticated production process steps and theircosts. The additive deposition of metallic inks or pastes by a printingprocess is an alternative manufacturing method with reduced cost.

To implement such printed antennas we investigated in the fields of antennadesign, simulation, printing technology and characterization. The chosenexample of use was a customized dipole antenna for a Radio FrequencyIdentification application. The results prove the intended functionality ofthe printed dipole in regard to a highly cost efficient printingmanufacturing.

[学科分类] 电子、光学、磁材料