The Vivaldi antenna, a high-performance broadband antenna, operates through a sophisticated interplay of electromagnetic interactions, enabled by its unique structural design.
At its core, the antenna features a tapered slot etched into a metal plate—typically crafted from conductive materials like copper or aluminum. This slot is characterized by a wide end that gradually narrows to a point, forming a distinctive tapered shape.
The working process begins when an electromagnetic wave passes through this slot. As the wave interacts with the metal plate, it induces the movement of electrons within the conductive material. This electron motion generates an electric current, which in turn gives rise to a magnetic field. It is the combination of this electric field and magnetic field that radiates the electromagnetic wave outward from the antenna, enabling both transmission and reception of signals.
A key factor behind its wideband capability lies in the tapered design of the slot. As the frequency of the incoming or outgoing electromagnetic wave changes, the effective "operating size" of the slot adjusts accordingly. The varying width along the slot allows it to efficiently match the wavelengths of different frequencies, ensuring that the antenna can radiate or receive waves across a broad frequency range with high efficiency.
This functional mechanism makes the Vivaldi antenna particularly valuable in applications demanding wide bandwidth and high gain, such as radar systems, wireless communication networks, and satellite communication systems. Its ability to adapt to diverse frequencies while maintaining performance stability underscores its practical superiority in modern technology.
Read recommendations: