STEPPED LEAKY-WAVE ANTENNAS FOR MICROWAVE AND MILLIMETER-WAVE APPLICATIONS

This work presents the complete general features of a recently propose d class of leaky-wave antennas, derived from stepped rectangular-secti on waveguides with radiating slits. Based on very favorable topologica l features, straightforward but extremely effective design procedures are shown to be possible for achieving sophisticated radiation propert ies. Furthermore, new possibilities are considered as concerns in both the use of linear arrays to scan in two dimensions, and in the introd uction of dielectric parts to improve the angular pointing range and t o also protect the radiating elements. The analysis of all these prope rties illustrates very attractive characteristics and perspectives for this type of antenna which can profitably find applications both at m icrowaves and at millimeter waves.