Antenna Schematic

W-Band Series-Fed Patch Antenna Array for Next-Generation Automotive Radar



Overview

Tetra Elements introduces an advanced W-Band (76-81 GHz) series-fed patch antenna array designed for next-generation automotive, industrial, and aerial radar systems. This design demonstrates precise beam control, stable broadband performance, and exceptional gain consistency, combining simulation precision with practical manufacturability. Operating in the millimeter-wave spectrum, the antenna achieves reliable, wide-angle coverage and excellent impedance matching, making it an ideal solution for modern radar applications where compactness and accuracy are critical.

Radiation Pattern 3D

a) 3D model of the antenna with overlaid radiation pattern.



Design Highlights

At the core of this antenna is a hybrid feed architecture that combines multi-section impedance transformers and inset feeding. This structure ensures smooth impedance transition, phase balance, and low reflection, allowing the array to maintain consistent performance across the entire W-Band. Through advanced full-wave FEM optimization, each design parameter—from patch geometry to feed position—was tuned to deliver a clean, symmetrical radiation pattern with high efficiency.


S11 Plot S11 Plot

a) Return loss across 76-81 GHz.   b) Input impedance on Smith chart.



Performance Summary

Simulation and optimization results confirm that this antenna offers outstanding electromagnetic performance while maintaining fabrication simplicity.

Key results include:

  • Operating Band: 76 - 81 GHz
  • Return Loss: better than -5 dB over the entire band; below -10 dB near 79 GHz
  • Azimuth Beamwidth (6 dB): ≈ 100° ± 2°
  • Elevation Beamwidth (6 dB): ≈ 50° ± 2°
  • Peak Gain: ≈ 11 dBi

The antenna maintains excellent beam stability across frequency, ensuring predictable radar imaging and detection performance even under varying environmental conditions.


S11 Plot

3D radiation pattern.



S11 Plot S11 Plot

a) Elevation and azimuth cuts (Cartesian view) showing beam profiles at 76.5, 78.5, and 80.5 GHz.   b) Polar representation of elevation and azimuth patterns for visualizing overall beam symmetry.


Key Advantages


  • Wide angular coverage enabling broader radar field of view
  • Excellent impedance stability and minimal reflection loss
  • Compact PCB-based designready for integration in low-profile enclosures
  • Manufacturing-ready architecture optimized for high repeatability
  • Scalable platform adaptable to custom frequency bands and pattern requirements

Application Areas


  • Automotive radar for short- and mid-range detection
  • Industrial sensing for distance and motion sensing
  • UAV and drone radar systemsrequiring lightweight arrays
  • Smart infrastructure and traffic-monitoring systems
  • Precision mapping and imaging radar technologies

This antenna provides the performance and adaptability required for the next generation of millimeter-wave radar systems.

Product Insight


This W-Band array is one of Tetra Elements’ flagship designs, showcasing our expertise in millimeter-wave engineering, beam-forming control, and antenna-system integration. The same design platform can be custom-tuned for other frequency bands, beam-width targets, or bandwidth goals, supporting both narrow-band and broadband radar applications. It represents a simulation-verified, production-ready solution that bridges high-frequency design precision with real-world manufacturability—ready for integration into commercial radar, sensing, and research systems.

** This product is available for purchase. Please contact us at info@tetraelements.com **



Tetra Elements LLC

Cupertino, California, USA

Call Us:   +1 408 498 7080

info@tetraelements.com

www.tetraelements.com

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