Low profile pattern-switchable multibeam antenna consisting of four L-shaped microstrip lines

A multibeam antenna consisting of a set of four L-shaped microstrip line sections is presented for pattern switchable applications. A planar electromagnetic band gap substrate is implemented to reduce the antenna profile to λ ₂.₄₅ /35, where λ ₂.₄₅ is the free space wavelength at a design frequency of 2.45 GHz. An impedance matching network is integrated on the lowest layer below a ground plane. The microstrip lines have a resonant frequency of 2.45 GHz and are excited separately. When one of the strips is excited, the antenna generates a tilted beam with a gain of 8.6 dBi. By switching the excitation strip sequentially, a full azimuth beam steering is achieved. When the antenna is located above a large conducting reflector, the antenna maintains its performance. Thus, the antenna is a candidate for moving objects with high speed internet and vehicular tracking.