CPW integrated microstrip array for three-dimensional microwave imaging

Development of an effective, compact and wideband microwave antenna array is an important issue for portable microwave imaging systems in biomedical applications. Typical imaging systems have a complicated topology with tangled array-cable connections. In this paper, a 2.8-6.0 GHz coplanar waveguide (CPW) connected microstrip antenna array is developed for three-dimensional (3-D) microwave imaging applications. Array elements are connected and controlled by the RF switches, resulting as a whole, low-cost and clean structure with manipulation convenience. Unique approaches are considered in the design, namely, low signal loss on the CPW transmission line, wide bandwidth and size miniaturization. The simulation and measured results indicate that the antenna array demonstrates satisfactory performance while largely reducing the system complexity.