Hybrid-decoupling-based shared-aperture phased array antenna for Ku/Ka-band with low profile, wide-angle scanning and high isolation

Abstract

Abstract This paper presents a low-profile Ku/Ka dual-band shared-aperture phased array antenna (SAPAA) that addresses conventional limitations in profile height, port isolation, and scanning angles through a hybrid-decoupling approach combining array decoupling surfaces (ADS) with defected ground structure (DGS), complemented by structural reuse techniques. The Ka-band elements utilize co-designed array decoupling surface layers integrated with DGS to effectively suppress surface current coupling, achieving wide-angle scanning capability of $$\pm 45^\circ$$ across the 32–36 GHz frequency band. For the dual-polarized Ku-band elements, feed matching is optimized through cross-shaped slots employing DGS structural reuse, demonstrating orthogonal port isolation exceeding 31 dB within the 14–18 GHz operational band while extending the scanning range to $$\pm 55^\circ$$ in both E- and H-planes. The antenna features an ultra-thin profile of merely 2.35 mm (0.28 $$\lambda _h$$ ), with measured inter-band isolation reaching 35 dB in the Ku-band and 18 dB in the Ka-band. Experimental verification confirms the design’s high performance and practical utility, offering a compact solution for multi-band integrated communication systems.