Linear high-gain bidirectional slot array fabricated by narrow bent metallic line

A linear high-gain slot array with bidirectional broadside radiation is proposed. By utilising a novel slot-energising approach, the slot array obtains a simple and compact geometry, which could be fabricated by a narrow bent metallic line. The slot array achieves an approximately constant magnitude distribution on a long radiating aperture by adopting proper slot elements arrangement and optimising the dimensions. Thus, compared to the existing bidirectional slot arrays in the open literature, the proposed slot array generates a higher gain and moderate gain-to-length ratio. To confirm the build strategy, a prototype with the length of 6.3 wavelength at the centre frequency of 2.4 GHz is constructed, fabricated, and tested, which realises a high gain of 14.0 dBi. With the merits of small size, high gain, low cost, and high-power capacity, the proposed slot array is an attractive substitute for various long-distance communication systems.