A Symmetrically Stacked Planar Antenna Concept Exhibiting Quasi-Isotropic Radiation Coverage

This letter presents a symmetrically stacked planar antenna (SSPA) featuring switchable quasi-omnidirectional and omnidirectional radiation patterns to accomplish a quasi-isotropic radiation coverage. The proposed antenna consists of two identical planar patch antenna elements. By separately controlling the phase of the two excitation ports, the comprised antenna collectively emulates either an electric dipole mode or a magnetic dipole mode. Collectively, these two complementary dipoles enable a full spherical coverage with a simulated far-field gain variation lower than 6.8 dB. In actual usage scenarios, the proposed antenna can encapsulate various RF circuits and components between the two antennas due to the ground planes functioning as electromagnetic shielding structures. Studies confirm that quasi-isotropic characteristics are preserved for highly integrated user scenarios.