Intelligent Sense and Control of RF MEMS Switching Technology

ABSTRACT:This project proposes to take advantage of the best available tuning technologies (MEMS-based tuning varactors) and modern control technology (CMOS electronics) to create reconfigurable filters at microwave frequencies that will have broad application in military systems. These low-loss, rapidly tunable bandpass filters are based on the integration of MEMS-based capacitive tuners and innovative CMOS closed-loop control circuits with state-of-the-art substrate integrated waveguide filter technology.BENEFIT:This reconfigurable filter technology will enable order-of-magnitude reductions in size and weight in communications systems that currently utilize switched filter banks to control frequency or bandwidth. This technology has broad applicability to a wide range of military systems, ranging from unmanned air vehicles to satellites, enabling adaptive frequency management in a compact, low-loss format.