Influence of the vehicle environment on the radiation characteristics of vehicle roof antennas

The influence of the vehicle environment on typical radiation patterns of roof antennas for satellite and as well for terrestrial communication is investigated. In order to separate the different effects on the electromagnetic wave, the antenna is simulated on several ground plates. The influence of edges close to the antenna, the curvature of the roof and glass is described. The simulated radiation patterns are compared to measurements carried out with a SATIMO Starlab. Furthermore the simulation of the antenna on a vehicle with near field sources is described.