Superstrate effects on slot-coupled microstrip antennas

An analysis for studying the superstrate (cover) effects on the slot-coupled microstrip antennas is presented. The approach is based on the reciprocity theorem and uses the grounded double- and single-layer dielectric slab Green's functions in a moment method solution for the unknown slot fields and patch currents. From these fields and currents, various characteristics of the antenna can be extracted, such as the radiation efficiency, directivity, input impedance, and resonant frequency. Numerical calculations showing superstrate effects on these antenna characteristics are presented. The input matches obtained from proper adjustment of the slot and patch dimensions are discussed.<>