A LTCC Ka-band conformal AMC-based array with mixed feeding network

A LTCC Ka-band conformal array with mixed feeding network is presented. The artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) was mounted below the microstrip antenna array to replace the conducting ground plane of antenna array, which can widen the operational band width and promote the gain of antenna array. A mixed feeding network that consists of laminated waveguide and microstrip line using LTCC technology is designed. With the mixed feeding network, the low profile structure is achieved, which is benefit for the manufacture of conformal structure. The conformal 8×8 antenna array is designed with an enhanced bandwidth of 17.4% and a gain up to 23.3dBi by AMC and the phase compensation of the array. The proposed array antenna also features the merits of compact size, stable performance, and high efficiency.