Large-Scale Integrated MEMS-Based ESA for MMW Applications

The proposed project will demonstrate a highly efficient, reliable, and affordable Ka band (35 GHz) Electronically Scanned Antenna (ESA) that is based on novel packaging and integration of proven innovations (from ThinKom and Memtronics) in the areas of MEMS phase-shifters, low-loss feed networks, and high-efficiency continuous transverse stub (CTS) radiating aperture technologies. The antenna will have sufficient gain (~29 dBi) to make it a viable stand-alone product, or it can be used as a building block for a modular scaleable higher-gain antenna. 2-D beam steering will be demonstrated using a line array of MEMs phase shifters for H-plane scanning and frequency change for E-plane scanning. The use of a line array (vs. a traditional NxN array) is one of many cost innovations that are expected to support near-term cost targets of a few dollars per square wavelength. Numerous design variants that employ a line array for H-plane scanning are possible, either with or without frequency steering. Frequency steering can be enhanced through the use of a high dielectric constant material in the CTS structure. Innovations that reduce device, feed, interconnect, and radiator losses, lead to an expected antenna efficiency of approximately 50%. The design and fabrication methods are expected to applicable to W band and higher frequencies. Extension of this technology to allow 2-D beam steering without the use of frequency steering will also be studied under this program.