EAAI_elsevier
EAAI_elsevier
Abstract
As 5G and 6G communication technologies advance, radar and other wireless
communication systems are increasingly employed in diverse applications, with
antenna arrays serving as key components. Conventional methods for synthe-
sizing radiation patterns of array antennas are computationally intensive and
time-consuming, as each pattern synthesis requires multiple algorithm iterations,
leading to extended computation times. This paper presents a Machine Learn-
ing (ML)-based approach to automate the synthesis of radiation patterns for a
millimeter-wave (mmWave) array antenna operating at 24 GHz. A microstrip
patch antenna (MPA) with an inset feed is designed at 24 GHz and used to
develop a 4×1 linear array operating at the same frequency. Radiation pattern
data were collected by varying design parameters of the patch using the Ansys
HFSS EM simulator. Several ML models were applied to the data, including Lin-
ear Regression, ElasticNet Regression, and Random Forest. Among these models,
Random Forest demonstrated the best performance, achieving a Mean Square
Error (MSE) of 0.04 on the test dataset.
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Keywords: Array Antenna, Linear Regression, Machine Learning, Millimeter-wave
Antenna, Radar, Random Forest
1 Introduction
The radiation pattern of an array antenna is a critical factor that defines how elec-
tromagnetic (EM) energy is distributed in space, influencing key performance metrics
such as coverage, gain, and directivity. This pattern is determined by the arrangement
and characteristics of the individual radiating elements within the array [1]. Array
antennas, composed of multiple radiating elements arranged in a systematic manner,
are designed to collectively enhance the overall performance of antenna systems. They
are widely used in various applications, including telecommunications, radar, and space
communications, due to their superior capabilities in signal reception, transmission,
and control of radiation patterns compared to single-element antennas.
Traditional methods for synthesizing radiation patterns, such as Fourier Transform
and optimization techniques [2–4], are commonly employed but are often complex,
computationally intensive, and time-consuming. These methods require iterative algo-
rithm runs to generate each pattern, significantly increasing the processing time,
particularly when synthesizing multiple patterns for the same antenna configuration.
With recent advancements in Machine Learning (ML), there has been a grow-
ing interest in applying ML techniques to various electromagnetic (EM) problems,
including antenna design and synthesis [5–14]. ML techniques have demonstrated con-
siderable potential in minimizing simulation times and improving antenna performance
in terms of beam steering, gain, MIMO, fault detection, and far-field imaging. More-
over, ML can automate the synthesis of radiation patterns in array antennas [15, 16],
providing a more efficient and effective alternative to traditional methods. Recently,
some efforts have been made to predict radiation patterns using ML algorithms. A lin-
ear mmWave phased array antenna is proposed with a phase-only synthesis approach
[15]. This method does not take into account the mutual coupling between the anten-
nas. Similarly, using the phase-based approach, a DNN algorithm is proposed in [16],
which considers the mutual coupling between antenna elements. Furthermore, an
ANN-based algorithm is presented [17] for both ideal and non-ideal linear arrays.
Indeed, phase information is required for beam steering antennas, but these meth-
ods are not resource-friendly for applications with fixed radiation beams. Beam
steering antennas require more training data and time as opposed to fixed beam
antennas used in applications for eg. automotive mmWave radar [18–20].
In this work, a millimeter-wave (mmWave) microstrip patch antenna (MPA) is
designed and simulated with an inset feed at 24 GHz. Further, it is configured into
a 4×1 linear array model. By varying design parameters, such as the length (Lp )
and width (Wp ) of the patch, radiation pattern data is collected, capturing how the
antenna radiates EM energy in different directions. This data includes the effect of
antenna mutual coupling. We applied and compared various ML models, including
Linear Regression, ElasticNet Regression, and Random Forest, to automate the radi-
ation pattern synthesis. The best-performing ML model is identified and validated
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through 2D radiation pattern plots, demonstrating its effectiveness in automating and
enhancing the pattern synthesis process for applications like automotive radars where
no beam steering is required.
The paper is organized into various sections to explain the proposed work. The
sections include introduction (1), real-life applications (2), machine learning meth-
ods (3), microstrip patch antenna and its array (4), design and analysis of mmWave
antenna (5) and its array (6), fabrication (7), data processing (8) and performance
comparison of ML methods (9), future scope (10), and conclusion (11).
2 Real-Life Applications
Operating at 24 GHz, MPAs are vital for multiple industries due to their compact
size and ability to handle high frequencies. They play a key role in improving wireless
communication and efficiency across sectors like telecommunications and healthcare,
driving important technological advancements as shown in Fig. 1.
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Drone capabilities can be enhanced through 24 GHz MPAs by providing reli-
able high-frequency communication for control and data transmission. Their compact
design supports advanced navigation, making them ideal for commercial deliveries,
surveillance, and emergency response operations.
The 24 GHz MPAs are transforming environmental monitoring by capturing high-
resolution data to observe natural changes and human impacts. Used on satellites
and drones, they enable precise tracking of land use, pollution, and support disaster
response and agricultural management, helping policymakers make informed decisions
for sustainability.
Further, millimeter-wave (mmWave) MPAs enhance security systems by improving
surveillance technologies with high-definition monitoring and reliable data trans-
mission. Their discreet integration supports motion detection and advanced remote
monitoring, providing real-time alerts and strengthening security for both residential
and commercial properties.
In addition, mmWave MPAs are advancing medical technology by enabling real-
time tracking of vital signs in wearable and implantable devices, improving patient
care. They enhance the accuracy of medical imaging for early diagnosis and are crucial
for reliable data transmission, supporting the growth of telehealth services.
Moreover, mmWave MPAs enhance defense capabilities by improving radar and
surveillance precision. They provide high-resolution imaging and broader detection
ranges, essential for security. Their reliable tracking boosts missile systems and drones’
accuracy, while their compact design ensures stealthy integration into military assets.
3 Machine Learning?
Machine learning (ML) [21] is transforming array antenna design by offering a more
efficient alternative to traditional methods like Fourier Transform and optimiza-
tion techniques. These conventional approaches can be complex and time-consuming,
particularly for large arrays.
Machine learning considerably reduces computational time by recognizing data
patterns, enabling the swift generation of radiation patterns without the need for
complex calculations. Design parameters can be simply provided, allowing the system
to quickly generate the desired radiation patterns. This automation conserves both
time and resources, facilitating quicker design iterations and broader exploration of
antenna configurations. In summary, our ML-based approach simplifies and speeds up
radiation pattern synthesis, providing efficient design solutions.
The key ML models employed in this work are presented here, emphasizing their
ability to reduce computational effort and enhance design efficiency in electromagnetic
systems.
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model endeavors to establish a correlation between two variables by fitting a linear
equation to the observed data. This equation adopts the following format
y = β0 + β1 x + ϵ (1)
where, y represents the dependent variable, and x is the independent variable. The
term β0 corresponds to the intercept, while β1 is the slope of the line. Additionally, ϵ
denotes the error term, accounting for any variability in y that cannot be explained
solely by x.
When multiple independent variables are involved, the technique becomes multi-
ple linear regression, allowing for a more complex equation that addresses intricate
relationships.
y = β0 + β1 x + ... + βn xn + ϵ (2)
During training, coefficients (β) are calculated by minimizing squared differences using
the least squares method. Linear regression is valued for its simplicity and is widely
used in economics and engineering for trend analysis. While it can be sensitive to
outliers and struggles with complex relationships, it remains an important statistical
tool.
where, yi represents the observed values, β0 is the intercept, and βj are the coefficients
of the model. The predictor variables are denoted by xij , with n representing the
number of data points and p indicating the number of predictors. Additionally, λ refers
to the regularization strength, while α is a parameter that balances the L1 and L2
penalties, typically determined through cross-validation.
Elastic Net Regression is utilized in areas like economics, medical research, and
biological sciences, where accurate predictions and model interpretability are crucial.
It effectively identifies predictors and works well with high-dimensional data, such as
genomics, where traditional methods may struggle.
3.3 KNN
K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) regression predicts a target value by averaging the values
of the K nearest data points. The choice of K is important—small values make the
model sensitive to noise, while larger K may generalize too much. KNN uses distance
metrics like Euclidean or Manhattan to find the closest neighbors and then averages
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their values to predict the output. KNN is simple and flexible, requiring no assump-
tions about data distribution. However, it can be computationally intensive for large
datasets and struggles with high-dimensional data due to the ”curse of dimensionality.”
where, c is the speed of light in a vacuum, L denotes the length of the patch, and ϵr
represents the relative permittivity of the substrate material.
The width (W) of a MPA is crucial in controlling its input impedance. Increasing
the width can improve bandwidth and lower impedance, making it easier to match
standard transmission line impedances like 50 Ohms. However, larger widths may
not be practical for compact devices. Antenna design requires a careful balance of
dimensions, frequency, and impedance to ensure optimal performance, especially when
integrating with portable embedded devices for wireless applications.
MPAs require efficient feeding mechanisms for optimal performance. Common tech-
niques include coaxial probe feed, microstrip line feed, aperture-coupled feed, and
proximity-coupled feed. This paper focus on the inset feed technique. The inset feed
involves inserting a microstrip line into the patch at a specific distance to achieve
impedance matching. By adjusting this inset distance, the input impedance of the
patch can be matched to the feed line’s impedance, enhancing power transfer and
minimizing reflection losses. This method is simple, reliable, and avoids the need for
complex matching networks. The inset feed was selected for its ability to provide good
impedance matching and stable performance across the antenna’s operating frequency
range.
An antenna array is a configuration of multiple antennas arranged in a specific geo-
metric pattern to improve performance over a single antenna. By combining several
radiating elements, array antennas enhance directionality and signal reception. Com-
mon configurations include linear, planar, and circular arrays, each offering different
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beam steering capabilities. Key factors affecting performance include element spac-
ing and the use of phase shifters for beamforming, allowing precise control of signal
direction. While array antennas offer increased directionality, flexibility, and reliabil-
ity, they come with higher design complexity and cost. Despite this, they are crucial
for advanced communication and radar systems.
A linear array antenna consists of multiple elements aligned in a straight line,
ideal for precise beam direction, and commonly used in communication, radar, and
broadcasting. Its key advantage is electronic beam steering via beamforming, where
phase adjustments direct the beam without mechanical movement. This improves
signal strength and minimizes interference. Linear arrays offer high directivity and
narrow beamwidth, making them effective for long-distance communication. They are
widely used in cellular base stations and radar systems for efficient area coverage.
However, proper design is needed to avoid grating lobes caused by excessive element
spacing.
We can determine the effective dielectric constant with the help of the following
equation [24],
εr + 1 εr − 1 1
εreff = + ·q (6)
2 2 1 + 12 h W
The extension of length (△l) can be determined using [24]
W
(εreff + 0.3) h + 0.264
∆L = 0.412h W
(7)
(εreff − 0.258) h + 0.8
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The formula for the actual length L of MPA after taking into account the fringing
fields is [24],
v0
L= √ + 2∆L (8)
2fr ϵreff
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Fig. 2 Microstrip line feed
Fig. 3 Design of microstrip patch antenna with inset feed using HFSS
performance within the specified frequency range for applications such as wireless
communication and radar systems. The bandwidth of the MPA from the S11 plot is
1.02 GHz as shown in Fig. 4.
The 3D gain plot as shown in Fig. 5 illustrates the antenna’s radiation pattern
The color-coded representation illustrates gain values in decibels (dBi), ranging from
-40 dB (blue) to +10 dB (red), with a maximum gain of 5.80 dBi for the MPA with
inset feed. The gain versus frequency plot shows the antenna’s performance across
frequencies, with frequency (in GHz) on the x-axis (from 18.3 to 28.8 GHz) and gain
(in dB) on the y-axis (from -15 dB to 10 dB). A prominent peak occurs around 24
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Table 1 Design Parameters
Parameters Value
Length of Substrate, Ls 15 mm
Width of Substrate, Ws 20 mm
Length of Patch, L 2.78 mm
Width of Patch,W 3.8 mm
Length of Feed, Lf 6.11 mm
Width of Feed, Wf 0.93 mm
Length of Inset, xo 0.97 mm
Width of Inset, yo 0.15 mm
Dielectric Material FR4
Permittivity of Substrate Material, ϵr 4.4
Fig. 4 Simulated reflection coefficient plot for the designed microstrip patch antenna
GHz, where the gain reaches approximately 8 dBi, as seen in Fig. 6. The 2D plots for
the E-plane (Azimuth, ϕ = 0 deg) and H-plane (Elevation, ϕ = 90 deg) are shown in
Fig. 7.
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Fig. 5 3D radiation plot of microstrip patch antenna having peak gain of 5.80 dB
Fig. 6 Simulated gain versus frequency plot showing peak gain at approximately 24 GHz
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Fig. 7 2D radiation plots for E-plane i.e. ϕ = 0 deg and H-plane i.e. ϕ = 90 deg
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Fig. 10 Measured reflection coefficient plot of the fabricated microstrip patch antenna using VNA
compared with simulated results
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6.2 Results of Array
The S-parameter plot reveals that the antennas resonant frequency occurs around
24 GHz, where the return loss reaches a minimum value of approximately -41.06
dB as shown in Fig. 12. The S11 , S22 , S33 and S44 for all the four elements in the
linear array antenna have minimum return loss at resonant frequency i.e. 24 GHz. At
this frequency, the antenna exhibits efficient impedance matching, minimizing energy
reflection. The bandwidth of the linear array antenna from the S-parameter plot is
approximately 1.02 GHz. The 3D plot as shown in Fig. 13 shows the increased gain
i.e. 10.17 dBi, which is twice the gain of a single MPA. The 2D plots for E-plane
(Azimuth) i.e. ϕ = 0 deg and H-plane (Elevation) i.e. ϕ = 90 deg for linear array
antenna at 24 GHz is given in Fig. 14.
Fig. 13 3D radiation plot of linear array antenna having peak gain of 10.17 dBi
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Fig. 14 2D radiation plots for E-plane i.e. ϕ = 0 deg and H-plane i.e. ϕ = 90 deg
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Fig. 15 Scatter plot of LinearRegression model on the collected data
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Fig. 18 Scatter plot of RandomForestRegressor model on the collected data
9 Future Scope
Automating radiation pattern synthesis for array antennas presents numerous oppor-
tunities for future development. A key area is optimizing machine learning models,
where refining techniques like deep learning could enhance accuracy beyond the success
of RandomForestRegressor. Additionally, combining multiple models or integrating
machine learning with physics-based approaches can improve performance. Exploring
advanced optimization methods, such as Bayesian optimization and genetic algo-
rithms, may also lead to faster convergence on optimal designs by efficiently navigating
complex parameter spaces.
Expanding design parameters beyond length and width is another important
avenue. Including factors like substrate properties, feed position, and element spacing
can significantly impact antenna performance. Incorporating non-geometric param-
eters, such as material properties, could further enhance prediction accuracy. Addi-
tionally, developing real-time adaptive systems that integrate machine learning into
antenna hardware could allow for autonomous adjustments to changing environments,
improving resilience in dynamic conditions. Finally, combining machine learning with
multi-objective optimization can help navigate conflicting design goals, yielding a
diverse set of optimized solutions for antenna designers.
10 Conclusion
In conclusion, this work has effectively integrated machine learning techniques into the
design of linear array antennas. The optimization process is streamlined by automating
radiation pattern synthesis at 24 GHz while maintaining accuracy. It began with
designing and validating an MPA, which ensured a solid foundation for the array.
The fabricated antenna closely matched simulation results from HFSS, confirming the
antenna design’s reliability. By varying design parameters machine learning models
were trained, with RandomForestRegressor achieving a low mean squared error of 0.04
and validation in MS Excel confirming our predictions.
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This study’s success underscores the potential of machine learning in antenna
engineering. It offers a more efficient and precise alternative to traditional optimiza-
tion methods. The presented approach reduces computational demands and enables
broader design exploration. By merging traditional design principles with modern
machine learning techniques, the groundwork for further advancements in mmWave
antenna engineering is laid, with important implications for wireless communication
systems and beyond.
Acknowledgements. The authors thank the Chips-to-Startup program, MeitY,
Government of India, and IHub-Data, IIIT Hyderabad, India.
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