Grant: Strategic Projects - Group

Future wireless high-speed, broad-bandwidth ubiquitous networks require sophisticated cost-effective antenna array receivers for the rapid development, installation and re-configurability of services. Such receivers must possess unique properties such as being highly integrated at low cost, agile with respect to frequency bands and directions of arrival, adaptive, and they must be able to cancel interference from other systems operating in the same frequency bands. Applications are widely found in multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) systems in the lower GHz frequency range, advanced ultra-wideband (UWB) terrestrial and satellite communications in the lower millimetre-wave range, and detection and ranging at various frequency ranges. Several objectives are targeted in this research project. First, we will investigate different feeding and antenna-element scenarios in substrate-integrated waveguide (SIW) technology, which provides a low-cost design platform for millimetre-wave circuits and systems. Second, we will develop a new concept for low-cost, low-noise direct-conversion receiver architecture with integrated amplifiers. Third, focal-plane-array applications will be considered for millimetre-wave detection applications. Prototype fabrication and experimental validation will be pursued at critical points during the research work. The final stage will be concerned with system integration and the pursuit of a commercially viable broadband antenna array receiver. This research will not only assist our industrial sponsor to seize competitive market advantages through this technology for conquering emerging broadband ubiquitous networks, but it will also provide Canadian industry with the technical resources and scientific personnel to maintain the leading role in the development of new products and services.