Mutual coupling suppression between antenna arrays used in aircraft

In this study, an EBG structure design and electrical characterizations are carried out to suppress the unwanted electromagnetic couplings between array antennas. For this purpose, firstly a simulation model of the microstrip array antenna which has 4,3 GHz operation frequency value is developed and frequency dependent S11 parameter values and far-field radiation patterns at the operating frequency are obtained. After that, designed EBG structure is positioned between a pair of microstrip array antenna and the effect of EBG structure on mutual coupling between antennas has been analyzed. Within the scope of the study, the numerical analyzes were repeated by placing the microstrip array antenna pair containing EBG on an aircraft. Finally, in order to show the validity of the obtained numerical analysis results, a prototype of the microstrip array antenna is manufactured and the experimental results are compared with the numerical results.