D. Pinchera | University of Cassino and Southern Latium (original) (raw)

Papers by D. Pinchera

Research paper thumbnail of Isophoric Inflating Deflating Exploration Algorithm (I-IDEA) for Equal-Amplitude Aperiodic Arrays

IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation

Research paper thumbnail of Microwave Response of a Microstrip Circuit Embedding Carbon Nanotube Films

2019 IEEE International Conference on Microwaves, Antennas, Communications and Electronic Systems (COMCAS), 2019

This paper investigates the microwave range response of microstrip circuit where a film of carbon... more This paper investigates the microwave range response of microstrip circuit where a film of carbon nanotubes is embedded into a microstrip-like circuit. Such a nanomaterial, as well as graphene, is currently embedded into planar structures like patch antennas, to exploit its novel features as, for instance, easy tunability. In view of these applications, in this paper it is analyzed the dependence of the scattering parameters from the geometrical and physical parameters of the circuit. The analysis is carried out either by means of experimental characterization via microstrip technique, and of numerical simulations with a full-wave electromagnetic simulation tool. In addition, by using these two results and by using structural characterization of the nanomaterial equivalent, an equivalent complex permittivity is retrieved, describing the embedded film.

Research paper thumbnail of Some recent advances in the synthesis of isophoric sparse arrays for satellite communications

2017 International Conference on Electromagnetics in Advanced Applications (ICEAA), 2017

This paper discusses some recent advances in the synthesis of isophoric sparse arrays, with refer... more This paper discusses some recent advances in the synthesis of isophoric sparse arrays, with reference to satellite communications. In particular, we first summarize some of the synthesis algorithm recently proposed, highlighting their advantages and drawbacks. Then, we show that, depending on the particular application scenario for which the sparse array must be designed, a better tailored algorithm exists. The presented analysis is aimed at providing a useful tool for antenna engineers involved in the overall design of sparse arrays for satellite communications.

Research paper thumbnail of An accurate and efficient analysis of very large but narrow zero-thickness PEC annular rings

2017 International Applied Computational Electromagnetics Society Symposium - Italy (ACES), 2017

In the analysis of the scattering by very large but narrow perfectly electrically conducting (PEC... more In the analysis of the scattering by very large but narrow perfectly electrically conducting (PEC) annular rings, high frequency methods suffer due to the multiple diffraction by the edges and full-wave methods usually require an enormous number of mesh-cells to reconstruct the solution. In order to overcome this problem, in this paper a novel guaranteed and fast convergent full-wave method is proposed.

Research paper thumbnail of MIMO Channel-State Estimation in the Presence of Partial Data and/or Intermittent Measurements

Electronics, 2017

We propose a method for estimating the channel matrix in MIMO communication systems from intermit... more We propose a method for estimating the channel matrix in MIMO communication systems from intermittent measurements based on the matrix completion technique. The method requires the minimization of the trace norm of the partially known channel matrix. The availability of fast and efficient convex minimization programs allows a numerically efficient solution of the problem. The effectiveness of the technique is numerically investigated considering different scattering environments.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison Guidelines and Benchmark Procedure for Sparse Array Synthesis

Progress In Electromagnetics Research M, 2016

A benchmarking procedure for sparse linear array synthesis methods is proposed. Our approach is b... more A benchmarking procedure for sparse linear array synthesis methods is proposed. Our approach is based on the comparison of the performance of the array synthesis algorithm under test with the performance of a reference solution based on a optimally equispaced array. The benchmark procedure is demonstrated considering some examples regarding sparse synthesis method proposed in literature. Guidelines for the correct comparison of synthesis methods and some "tough problems" for the test of new sparse synthesis algorithms are also provided.

Research paper thumbnail of Wide Band Permittivity Measurementsof Palm(Phoenix Canariensis)andRhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera Curculionidae)for RF Pest Control

Journal of Microwave Power and Electromagnetic Energy, 2014

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Oliv., known as the red palm weevil (RPW), has quickly spread in Southe... more Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Oliv., known as the red palm weevil (RPW), has quickly spread in Southern Europe, infesting and destroying an increasing number of palms, particularly the Phoenix canariensis ones. Of the various techniques suggested for treating the palms, high power microwave applications are considered an attractive, eco-compatibile solution. However, in order to correctly design the exposure system, a knowledge of the electromagnetic properties of the materials involved is required. In this paper, we present a broad-band electromagnetic characterization in the 0.4-18 GHz frequency range of the tissues (both healthy and damaged) of the P. canariensis, with different moisture content, and of the R. ferrugineus in different stages (larva, pupa and adult). The palm tissues had a high water content and a dielectric model of the vegetation was applied to the experimental data in order to estimate the volume fraction of free water and of the bulk vegetation-bound water mixture as well as the ionic conductivity of the free-water solution.

Research paper thumbnail of Experimental channel characterization of a MIMO-UWB communication system

2008 IEEE Antennas and Propagation Society International Symposium, 2008

In this paper, an experimental evaluation of the performances of a MIMO-UWB system has been descr... more In this paper, an experimental evaluation of the performances of a MIMO-UWB system has been described. The results obtained show that only at short distances MIMO-UWB systems exploit a significant multiplexing gain. This is mainly due to the SNR of UWB communications. Since the bit rate of UWB at short distances is already very high, non-negligible improvements can be obtained

Research paper thumbnail of On the limits of mimo systems: Complete matrix model and intuitive graphic representation

This paper introduces a complete model for the analysis of MIMO systems, obtaining a factorizatio... more This paper introduces a complete model for the analysis of MIMO systems, obtaining a factorization of the channel matrix into four matrices, each having its physical meaning. Particular attention is given to the propagation matrix, that describes the electromagnetic propagation between two domains.

Research paper thumbnail of A dual-polarized parasitic patch antenna for MIMO systems

ABSTRACT A preliminary analysis of a reconfigurable parasitic patch antenna for MIMO applications... more ABSTRACT A preliminary analysis of a reconfigurable parasitic patch antenna for MIMO applications is presented. The proposed antenna is able to work on two different polarizations, providing a separate control of the antenna pattern of each of the two polarization. A number of numerical results, showing the adaptive capabilities of the antenna, is given.

Research paper thumbnail of The theoretical basis of Near-Field MIMO antenna characterization

Research paper thumbnail of Phase-transition behavior in array diagnosis using sparse recovery techniques

2012 6th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EUCAP), 2012

ABSTRACT The aim of this contribution is an analysis the the probability of correct estimation of... more ABSTRACT The aim of this contribution is an analysis the the probability of correct estimation of the faulty elements using a measurement strategy similar to the one-pixel camera. The set-up is based on a reflectarray whose scattering elements are electronically controlled. Numerical simulations shows a phase-transition behavior of the probability of AUT fault detection using the proposed measurement set-up, based on compressed sensing-sparse recovery strategy. The important practical consequence is that, for a given degrees of sparsity of the unknown vector (i.e. for any fixed maximum number of defects) and for a given noise level, it is possible to identify the exact number of measurements needed to perform a correct array diagnosis.

Research paper thumbnail of Effectively Exploiting Parasitic Arrays for Secret Key Sharing

IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, 2016

The extraction of a security key from the measurement of the wireless channel can be effectively ... more The extraction of a security key from the measurement of the wireless channel can be effectively achieved by means of the use of parasitic antenna arrays; this kind of antenna can be easily implemented in Wi-Fi hotspots or in vehicle-to-vehicle communications, providing a secure communication channel without previous key sharing between the terminals. In this paper, we discuss a methodology to correctly design the parasitic array and a practical method to share a binary key exploiting the virtual channel provided by the parasitic elements. The proposed architecture presents very low complexity, because it requires only one transceiver for each terminal and cheap electronically controllable impedances, making this security technology particularly attractive in low-cost applications.

Research paper thumbnail of A Sparse Recovery Approach for Pattern Correction of Active Arrays in Presence of Element Failures

IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, 2015

The aim of this paper is to propose a novel approach based on sparse recovery technique for real-... more The aim of this paper is to propose a novel approach based on sparse recovery technique for real-time correction of the pattern of active arrays in presence of failures of radiating elements. The failures are identified without interfering with the normal array operation, using a small number of probes placed around the array. After identifying the faulty elements the aperture is reconfigured in order to reduce the pattern degradation as much as possible.

Research paper thumbnail of A Virtual Subarray Architecture for Imaging Radar

IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation, 2014

ABSTRACT In this paper, an architecture for imaging systems employing a smart subarray design to ... more ABSTRACT In this paper, an architecture for imaging systems employing a smart subarray design to reduce the number of control points as much as possible is proposed. The radar consists of two linear arrays, orthogonally orientated to achieve the same response of a full planar rectangular array, while the feeds are realized by means of properly designed subarrays, that cancel out the grating lobes of the array factor. In the proposed architecture, the role of the subarrays is interchanged: The subarray that cancels out the grating lobes of the vertical array is used as the element of the horizontal array, and vice-versa, so that there is no feed overlapping. A synthesis strategy for the optimization of subarray and array excitations, based on generalized alternate projections, is also presented and validated by means of a number of simulations. The proposed radar is compared with other existing radar architectures, showing good performances with a very limited number of control points.

Research paper thumbnail of Cut-Off Wavenumbers of Polygonal Cross Section Waveguides

IEEE Microwave and Wireless Components Letters, 2014

The choice of basis functions is a key-point in Galerkin's method. Taking into account the edge b... more The choice of basis functions is a key-point in Galerkin's method. Taking into account the edge behaviour of the fields can greatly improve the effectiveness of the method, especially when dealing with conducting structures. Another issue is related to the impedance matrix computation, which can be cumbersome when resorting to the spectral domain. The aim of this letter is the analysis of arbitrary polygonal cross section waveguides with a technique addressing both the aforementioned issues. The reported numerical results show that high accuracy can be obtained quickly and with few basis functions.

Research paper thumbnail of Improving Channel Capacity Using Adaptive MIMO Antennas

IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation, 2006

A novel type of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna employing parasitic elements is pre... more A novel type of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna employing parasitic elements is presented. A proper model for the parasitic-MIMO system is first discussed and then numerically and experimentally investigated. The results show that the proposed solution can significantly improve the performance of the communication system with a minimum impact on the complexity and cost of the overall system

Research paper thumbnail of Correction of Beam Direction in Adaptive Parasitic Monopole Arrays Using a Truncated Cone Structure

IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, 2012

The finite size of the ground plane in adaptive parasitic arrays employing monopole elements affe... more The finite size of the ground plane in adaptive parasitic arrays employing monopole elements affects the radiation pattern, causing a shift of the main lobe from the azimuthal plane of the antenna. This is usually a nondesired behavior. In order to correct this shift, a truncated cone is placed on the top of the radiating structure. The cone works as a proper reflector deflecting the main beam and thus producing a pattern with a greater gain on the azimuthal plane.

Research paper thumbnail of A Simple and Effective Procedure for Connector Deembedding in Antenna Arrays

IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Microwave treatment for pest control: the case of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Phoenix canariensis

EPPO Bulletin, 2011

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (red palm weevil) is currently one of the major threats to palms in the... more Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (red palm weevil) is currently one of the major threats to palms in the Mediterranean area. No single technique developed up to now seems able to completely eradicate this pest. This paper introduces microwave treatment as an effective tool to help the control of this insect; the effect of microwave radiation on palm tissues and on the curculionid is described and discussed. The main advantage of microwaves is their eco-compatibility, and preliminary results of their application to Rhynchophorus ferrugineus control are very promising.

Research paper thumbnail of Isophoric Inflating Deflating Exploration Algorithm (I-IDEA) for Equal-Amplitude Aperiodic Arrays

IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation

Research paper thumbnail of Microwave Response of a Microstrip Circuit Embedding Carbon Nanotube Films

2019 IEEE International Conference on Microwaves, Antennas, Communications and Electronic Systems (COMCAS), 2019

This paper investigates the microwave range response of microstrip circuit where a film of carbon... more This paper investigates the microwave range response of microstrip circuit where a film of carbon nanotubes is embedded into a microstrip-like circuit. Such a nanomaterial, as well as graphene, is currently embedded into planar structures like patch antennas, to exploit its novel features as, for instance, easy tunability. In view of these applications, in this paper it is analyzed the dependence of the scattering parameters from the geometrical and physical parameters of the circuit. The analysis is carried out either by means of experimental characterization via microstrip technique, and of numerical simulations with a full-wave electromagnetic simulation tool. In addition, by using these two results and by using structural characterization of the nanomaterial equivalent, an equivalent complex permittivity is retrieved, describing the embedded film.

Research paper thumbnail of Some recent advances in the synthesis of isophoric sparse arrays for satellite communications

2017 International Conference on Electromagnetics in Advanced Applications (ICEAA), 2017

This paper discusses some recent advances in the synthesis of isophoric sparse arrays, with refer... more This paper discusses some recent advances in the synthesis of isophoric sparse arrays, with reference to satellite communications. In particular, we first summarize some of the synthesis algorithm recently proposed, highlighting their advantages and drawbacks. Then, we show that, depending on the particular application scenario for which the sparse array must be designed, a better tailored algorithm exists. The presented analysis is aimed at providing a useful tool for antenna engineers involved in the overall design of sparse arrays for satellite communications.

Research paper thumbnail of An accurate and efficient analysis of very large but narrow zero-thickness PEC annular rings

2017 International Applied Computational Electromagnetics Society Symposium - Italy (ACES), 2017

In the analysis of the scattering by very large but narrow perfectly electrically conducting (PEC... more In the analysis of the scattering by very large but narrow perfectly electrically conducting (PEC) annular rings, high frequency methods suffer due to the multiple diffraction by the edges and full-wave methods usually require an enormous number of mesh-cells to reconstruct the solution. In order to overcome this problem, in this paper a novel guaranteed and fast convergent full-wave method is proposed.

Research paper thumbnail of MIMO Channel-State Estimation in the Presence of Partial Data and/or Intermittent Measurements

Electronics, 2017

We propose a method for estimating the channel matrix in MIMO communication systems from intermit... more We propose a method for estimating the channel matrix in MIMO communication systems from intermittent measurements based on the matrix completion technique. The method requires the minimization of the trace norm of the partially known channel matrix. The availability of fast and efficient convex minimization programs allows a numerically efficient solution of the problem. The effectiveness of the technique is numerically investigated considering different scattering environments.

Research paper thumbnail of Comparison Guidelines and Benchmark Procedure for Sparse Array Synthesis

Progress In Electromagnetics Research M, 2016

A benchmarking procedure for sparse linear array synthesis methods is proposed. Our approach is b... more A benchmarking procedure for sparse linear array synthesis methods is proposed. Our approach is based on the comparison of the performance of the array synthesis algorithm under test with the performance of a reference solution based on a optimally equispaced array. The benchmark procedure is demonstrated considering some examples regarding sparse synthesis method proposed in literature. Guidelines for the correct comparison of synthesis methods and some "tough problems" for the test of new sparse synthesis algorithms are also provided.

Research paper thumbnail of Wide Band Permittivity Measurementsof Palm(Phoenix Canariensis)andRhynchophorus ferrugineus (Coleoptera Curculionidae)for RF Pest Control

Journal of Microwave Power and Electromagnetic Energy, 2014

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Oliv., known as the red palm weevil (RPW), has quickly spread in Southe... more Rhynchophorus ferrugineus Oliv., known as the red palm weevil (RPW), has quickly spread in Southern Europe, infesting and destroying an increasing number of palms, particularly the Phoenix canariensis ones. Of the various techniques suggested for treating the palms, high power microwave applications are considered an attractive, eco-compatibile solution. However, in order to correctly design the exposure system, a knowledge of the electromagnetic properties of the materials involved is required. In this paper, we present a broad-band electromagnetic characterization in the 0.4-18 GHz frequency range of the tissues (both healthy and damaged) of the P. canariensis, with different moisture content, and of the R. ferrugineus in different stages (larva, pupa and adult). The palm tissues had a high water content and a dielectric model of the vegetation was applied to the experimental data in order to estimate the volume fraction of free water and of the bulk vegetation-bound water mixture as well as the ionic conductivity of the free-water solution.

Research paper thumbnail of Experimental channel characterization of a MIMO-UWB communication system

2008 IEEE Antennas and Propagation Society International Symposium, 2008

In this paper, an experimental evaluation of the performances of a MIMO-UWB system has been descr... more In this paper, an experimental evaluation of the performances of a MIMO-UWB system has been described. The results obtained show that only at short distances MIMO-UWB systems exploit a significant multiplexing gain. This is mainly due to the SNR of UWB communications. Since the bit rate of UWB at short distances is already very high, non-negligible improvements can be obtained

Research paper thumbnail of On the limits of mimo systems: Complete matrix model and intuitive graphic representation

This paper introduces a complete model for the analysis of MIMO systems, obtaining a factorizatio... more This paper introduces a complete model for the analysis of MIMO systems, obtaining a factorization of the channel matrix into four matrices, each having its physical meaning. Particular attention is given to the propagation matrix, that describes the electromagnetic propagation between two domains.

Research paper thumbnail of A dual-polarized parasitic patch antenna for MIMO systems

ABSTRACT A preliminary analysis of a reconfigurable parasitic patch antenna for MIMO applications... more ABSTRACT A preliminary analysis of a reconfigurable parasitic patch antenna for MIMO applications is presented. The proposed antenna is able to work on two different polarizations, providing a separate control of the antenna pattern of each of the two polarization. A number of numerical results, showing the adaptive capabilities of the antenna, is given.

Research paper thumbnail of The theoretical basis of Near-Field MIMO antenna characterization

Research paper thumbnail of Phase-transition behavior in array diagnosis using sparse recovery techniques

2012 6th European Conference on Antennas and Propagation (EUCAP), 2012

ABSTRACT The aim of this contribution is an analysis the the probability of correct estimation of... more ABSTRACT The aim of this contribution is an analysis the the probability of correct estimation of the faulty elements using a measurement strategy similar to the one-pixel camera. The set-up is based on a reflectarray whose scattering elements are electronically controlled. Numerical simulations shows a phase-transition behavior of the probability of AUT fault detection using the proposed measurement set-up, based on compressed sensing-sparse recovery strategy. The important practical consequence is that, for a given degrees of sparsity of the unknown vector (i.e. for any fixed maximum number of defects) and for a given noise level, it is possible to identify the exact number of measurements needed to perform a correct array diagnosis.

Research paper thumbnail of Effectively Exploiting Parasitic Arrays for Secret Key Sharing

IEEE Transactions on Vehicular Technology, 2016

The extraction of a security key from the measurement of the wireless channel can be effectively ... more The extraction of a security key from the measurement of the wireless channel can be effectively achieved by means of the use of parasitic antenna arrays; this kind of antenna can be easily implemented in Wi-Fi hotspots or in vehicle-to-vehicle communications, providing a secure communication channel without previous key sharing between the terminals. In this paper, we discuss a methodology to correctly design the parasitic array and a practical method to share a binary key exploiting the virtual channel provided by the parasitic elements. The proposed architecture presents very low complexity, because it requires only one transceiver for each terminal and cheap electronically controllable impedances, making this security technology particularly attractive in low-cost applications.

Research paper thumbnail of A Sparse Recovery Approach for Pattern Correction of Active Arrays in Presence of Element Failures

IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, 2015

The aim of this paper is to propose a novel approach based on sparse recovery technique for real-... more The aim of this paper is to propose a novel approach based on sparse recovery technique for real-time correction of the pattern of active arrays in presence of failures of radiating elements. The failures are identified without interfering with the normal array operation, using a small number of probes placed around the array. After identifying the faulty elements the aperture is reconfigured in order to reduce the pattern degradation as much as possible.

Research paper thumbnail of A Virtual Subarray Architecture for Imaging Radar

IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation, 2014

ABSTRACT In this paper, an architecture for imaging systems employing a smart subarray design to ... more ABSTRACT In this paper, an architecture for imaging systems employing a smart subarray design to reduce the number of control points as much as possible is proposed. The radar consists of two linear arrays, orthogonally orientated to achieve the same response of a full planar rectangular array, while the feeds are realized by means of properly designed subarrays, that cancel out the grating lobes of the array factor. In the proposed architecture, the role of the subarrays is interchanged: The subarray that cancels out the grating lobes of the vertical array is used as the element of the horizontal array, and vice-versa, so that there is no feed overlapping. A synthesis strategy for the optimization of subarray and array excitations, based on generalized alternate projections, is also presented and validated by means of a number of simulations. The proposed radar is compared with other existing radar architectures, showing good performances with a very limited number of control points.

Research paper thumbnail of Cut-Off Wavenumbers of Polygonal Cross Section Waveguides

IEEE Microwave and Wireless Components Letters, 2014

The choice of basis functions is a key-point in Galerkin's method. Taking into account the edge b... more The choice of basis functions is a key-point in Galerkin's method. Taking into account the edge behaviour of the fields can greatly improve the effectiveness of the method, especially when dealing with conducting structures. Another issue is related to the impedance matrix computation, which can be cumbersome when resorting to the spectral domain. The aim of this letter is the analysis of arbitrary polygonal cross section waveguides with a technique addressing both the aforementioned issues. The reported numerical results show that high accuracy can be obtained quickly and with few basis functions.

Research paper thumbnail of Improving Channel Capacity Using Adaptive MIMO Antennas

IEEE Transactions on Antennas and Propagation, 2006

A novel type of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna employing parasitic elements is pre... more A novel type of multiple-input multiple-output (MIMO) antenna employing parasitic elements is presented. A proper model for the parasitic-MIMO system is first discussed and then numerically and experimentally investigated. The results show that the proposed solution can significantly improve the performance of the communication system with a minimum impact on the complexity and cost of the overall system

Research paper thumbnail of Correction of Beam Direction in Adaptive Parasitic Monopole Arrays Using a Truncated Cone Structure

IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, 2012

The finite size of the ground plane in adaptive parasitic arrays employing monopole elements affe... more The finite size of the ground plane in adaptive parasitic arrays employing monopole elements affects the radiation pattern, causing a shift of the main lobe from the azimuthal plane of the antenna. This is usually a nondesired behavior. In order to correct this shift, a truncated cone is placed on the top of the radiating structure. The cone works as a proper reflector deflecting the main beam and thus producing a pattern with a greater gain on the azimuthal plane.

Research paper thumbnail of A Simple and Effective Procedure for Connector Deembedding in Antenna Arrays

IEEE Antennas and Wireless Propagation Letters, 2009

Research paper thumbnail of Microwave treatment for pest control: the case of Rhynchophorus ferrugineus in Phoenix canariensis

EPPO Bulletin, 2011

Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (red palm weevil) is currently one of the major threats to palms in the... more Rhynchophorus ferrugineus (red palm weevil) is currently one of the major threats to palms in the Mediterranean area. No single technique developed up to now seems able to completely eradicate this pest. This paper introduces microwave treatment as an effective tool to help the control of this insect; the effect of microwave radiation on palm tissues and on the curculionid is described and discussed. The main advantage of microwaves is their eco-compatibility, and preliminary results of their application to Rhynchophorus ferrugineus control are very promising.