Date of Award
Summer 2002
Document Type
Thesis - Restricted
Degree Name
Master of Science (MS)
Department
Electrical and Computer Engineering
First Advisor
Richie, James E.
Second Advisor
Ishii, Thomas K.
Third Advisor
Wolski, Mark
Abstract
Vehicular communication antennas are often an afterthought in the overall design of the vehicle. This often constrains the location of the antenna, making it less than optimal to achieve successful communication. Straight wire antennas are often implemented and increase the profile of the vehicle. This thesis focuses on the very high frequency (VHF) antenna system on a rectangular land-based vehicle. An evaluation of the present straight wire antenna system is undertaken and a loop antenna alternative is proposed. The characteristics of the vehicle are examined and evaluated for antenna placement. The noise and ground effects of the channel are examined. A small loop antenna system is developed and compared with the original configuration. The antenna and vehicular interactions are examined using radiation pattern characteristics and near magnetic field analysis. The thesis explores how the antenna and platform interactions affect vertically polarized antenna gain. A consistent antenna gain broadcast along the horizon across 30-90 MHz is the goal. The affects of platform size on antenna performance are discussed and a novel loop configuration has been described. A 'phantom monopole' has been created with the use of two loop antennas providing a potential alternative antenna configuration for the lower band.
Recommended Citation
Koch, Benjamin R., "Electromagnetic Characteristics of Small Loop Antennas on Rectangular Platforms" (2002). Master's Theses (1922-2009) Access restricted to Marquette Campus. 4930.
https://epublications.marquette.edu/theses/4930