SmartBowtie: PCB/LTCC/Silicon Based UWB mm-Wave Smart Capped Bowtie Array Antenna for 5G Communication Systems

Purpose and goal

In our application, the goal is set as “to fully develop smart CapBowtie technology, generate and characterize prototypes for industry to further integrate and industrialize it in mm-Wave 5G systems”. Now we have designed and buit 9 different prototypes of CapBowtie array antennas and all of them have fulfilled the requirements set for the application. We have done the integration of 2×2 sub-array integration with Tx/Rx modules by two methods, which is the base for further integration of large CapBowtie arrays, such as 32×32 array, with full Tx/Rx modules in a continuation project.

Expected results and effects

Technology outcomes with prototypes: A dual-pol 17-45 GHz access Bowtie array with ±60° scan. 3 types of 18-30 GHz high-gain backhauling Bowtie arrays. A dual-band (20GHz+E band) dual-pol backhauling Bowtie array. A 20-40 GHz handset large-scan Bowtie array. 2 integrations of 2×2 Bowtie array with Tx/Rx. Knowledge outcomes: A new patent, another under preparation. 4 Master theses. A PhD thesis. A best conf. paper award, a best Master SER award. 10 conf. papers, 3 submitted and 2 to-be-submitted journal articles. Effects: TRL reaches 5 and 6. Only full integration left.

Planned approach and implementation

Novel design and implement with prototypes: Antenna elements: o dual-polar dual-band capped Bowtie (20GHz and E-band). o wide-scan tightly-coupled Bowtie (17-45 GHz). o backhauling tightly-coupled Bowtie (19-30 GHz). o circular-pol bold-C spiral (19-30GHz). Feed networks o dielectric-based inverted microstrip gap waveguide, compact to fit in the arrays. Integration: o a 2×2 sub-array of Bowtie array via VCSEL (Vertical-Cavity Surface-Emitting Laser) with amplifiers. o Another integration circuit for a 2×2 sub-array with Tx and Rx functions.