Feeding network for microwave hyperthermia treatment of brain tumor using wideband in-phase power divider

An in-phase power divider as a feeding network for two-element antenna array for microwave hyperthermia treatment of brain tumor is presented. The proposed power divider is used for the simultaneous power distribution between two element antenna array, where equal amplitude and in-phase signals are required. It is designed using two pairs of coupled lines to achieve 100% fractional bandwidth. The antenna array is designed using corrugated tapered slot antennas to cover more than 100% fractional bandwidth. The whole structure is optimized using CST MWS. The performance of the power divider and the antenna array is analyzed by means of simulations across the band 1-3 GHz, which is used in most if not all microwave hyperthermia applications. To be able to control the direction of the array´s mainbeam, a phase shifter is included in the feeding line of one of the antenna elements. The whole structure is tested on a realistic head phantom to investigate the penetration of the fields inside the head.