Advanced Integrated Antenna Systems for Future Wireless Terminals

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The fifth generation (5G) of wireless communications will utilize several technologies to achieve the anticipated 1000 times increase in channel capacity compared to its predecessor (i.e. 4G). The use of millimeter-wave (mm-wave) bands will allow large bandwidths and thus channel capacity enhancement. The drawback of wireless communications at mm-waves is the excess signal propagation loss due to the high frequency of operation. To overcome this issue, antenna arrays will be utilized. Integrating antenna arrays within small form factor devices will have several challenges in terms of architecture, integration, performance and size. One potential solution to have highly integrated antenna arrays for 5G wireless terminals with small size at mm-wave bands is to integrate them in/within the integrated circuits (IC) package (antenna in package AiP) or on it (antenna on package AoP). The concept of AiP and AoP is still relatively new, and novel solutions targeting performance, size, complexity and integration are still to be investigated and are far from being ready for use in commercial terminals. ***In this research program, we will propose and investigate several novel integrated antenna system designs and solutions with enhanced capabilities and performance at the mm-wave utilizing the AiP and AoP array architectures with multiple-input-multiple-output (MIMO) capabilities for future 5G wireless terminals and enabled devices. We will cover several standard frequency bands such as 28GHz, 38GHz and 60GHz. The work will utilize several technologies and novel antenna system concepts to obtain radiation pattern reconfigurability and control as well as high gain and efficiency to overcome the signal path losses. Integrating the radio-frequency (RF) electronics with the AiP or AoP will provide more compact solutions for future wireless terminals with enhanced features. The program will train students and expose them to state of the art tools and design methods and will give them the skills needed for the workplace. It will also involve technology and knowledge transfer along with novel advanced integrated methods and solutions of in/on package antenna designs, MIMO arrays at mm-waves and integration with RFICs. Such designs will be of great use in future wireless devices and will have noticeable impact on future integrated technologies. This work fits within the NSERC programs under the Electrical and Computer Engineering focus area (1510) targeting Electromagnetics and Micro/nano-technology (ENE04) and will provide system level solutions of integrated antennas, their feeding structures, performance enhancement methods, antenna elements and controlling electronics all within the same package. The outcomes and solutions from this program will have a direct impact on the 75% market share that wireless handheld devices will possess by 2021 along with Canada's 500% data rate increased demand and contributing to the $40 Billion GDP coming from 5G technology.**