TLM Modelling of a Slotted Wearable Microstrip Antenna Under Bending Conditions

Abstract

This paper investigates the potential of the Transmission Line Matrix (TLM) method and highlights the efficiency of a conformal cylindrical mesh for analyzing the tunable capabilities of a wearable slotted antenna under bending conditions. Various configurations of polygon-shaped and U-shaped slots inserted into the radiating patch of a rectangular antenna are considered to illustrate their tuning effects on antenna parameters. The cylindrical TLM approach is demonstrated to be particularly effective for the efficient and accurate analysis of a flexible slotted antenna attached to the human body, focusing on resonant frequencies and reflection coefficients under different bending angles. The simulated results confirm the consistency of frequency shifts caused by bending, while the cylindrical mesh provides precise analysis of the impact of slot shape and size on antenna performance.