A novel optimized broadband reconfigurable RHCP/LHCP E-shaped patch antenna

Achieving circular polarization (CP) diversity for single port patch antennas presents a difficult challenge for broadband communication systems. In light of this, we propose a novel optimized broadband polarization (RHCP/LHCP) reconfigurable antenna using the E-shaped patch topology. We have used a nature inspired optimization technique, Particle Swarm Optimization, to realize a novel broadband switchable design which provides 14% impedance/axial ratio bandwidth. As a concept verification, we demonstrate our design using ideal switch models through simulation and measurement of the radiation pattern, axial ratio, and impedance matching. Our design demonstrates excellent performance, and good agreement between simulation and measurement was observed. Overall, broadband CP diversity has been realized with our single feed E-shaped patch design, and active RF switches can effectively be implemented into this design.