Open AccessFrequency reconfigurable patch antenna using liquid metal as switching mechanism
Author(s) -
Kelley M.,
Koo C.,
McQuilken H.,
Lawrence B.,
Li S.,
Han A.,
Huff G.
Publication year - 2013
Publication title -
electronics letters
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.375
H-Index - 146
eISSN - 1350-911X
pISSN - 0013-5194
DOI - 10.1049/el.2013.2930
Subject(s) - reconfigurable antenna , microstrip antenna , patch antenna , materials science , antenna (radio) , fluidics , microstrip , optoelectronics , antenna measurement , coaxial antenna , acoustics , electronic engineering , electrical engineering , engineering , physics
The use of liquid metal as a switching mechanism for a frequency‐reconfigurable edge‐fed microstrip patch antenna designed to operate in either the 2.4 GHz ISM band or the 1.6 GHz GPS band is illustrated. A partitioned fluidic manifold bonded to the top of the antenna enables the pressure‐driven displacement of a low‐loss dielectric fluid and the liquid metal from a reservoir atop the patch to switch between the two antenna states. Fabrication and measurement of the antenna illustrates the use of fluidics as an alternative to RF switches for reconfigurable antennas.