Weak-Field-Based Self-Decoupling Patch Antennas

Abstract

In this article, a new self-decoupling method, namely weak-field-based decoupling technique, is proposed and validated based on inset-fed patch antenna arrays. The self-decoupling effect is realized by taking advantage of the inherent weak-field area created by the feeding structure and proposed inset-fed patch. By strategically arranging the array element in the weak-field area of the adjacent antenna element, the coupling strength between adjacent elements can be controlled under a very low level without the need of any additional decoupling circuitry or structures. A two-element patch antenna array was first developed and analyzed, achieving a peak isolation level of 61 dB. Afterward, a four-element linear patch antenna array was designed, fabricated, and measured to further validate the proposed technique. With the distinct advantages of simple structure and effective isolation enhancement, the proposed self-decoupling method is very promising for MIMO applications.