Introduction

This book presents research focused on the design of fractal antennas using bio-inspired computing techniques. The authors present designs for fractal antennas having desirable features like size reduction characteristics, enhanced gain, and improved bandwidths. The research is summarized in six chapters which highlight the important issues related to fractal antenna design and the mentioned computing techniques. Chapters demonstrate several applied concepts and techniques used in the process such as Artificial Neural Networks (ANNs), Genetic Algorithms (GAs), Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and Bacterial Foraging Optimization (BFO). The work aims to provide cost-effective and efficient solutions to the demand for compact antennas due to the increasing demand for reduced sizes of components in modern wireless communication devices.

A key feature of the book includes an extensive literature survey to understand the concept of fractal antennas, their features, and design approaches. Another key feature is the systematic approach to antenna design. The book explains how the IE3D software is used to simulate various fractal antennas, and how the results can be used to select a design. This is followed by ANN model development and testing for optimization, and an exploration of ANN ensemble models for the design of fractal antennas.

The bio-inspired computing techniques based on GA, PSO, and BFO are developed to find the optimal design of the proposed fractal antennas for the desired applications. The performance comparison of the given computing techniques is also explained to demonstrate how to select the best algorithm for a given bio-inspired design. Finally, the book explains how to evaluate antenna designs.

This book is a valuable resource for students (from UG to PG levels) and research scholars undertaking learning modules or projects on microstrip and patch antenna design in communications or electronics engineering courses.