Reconfigurable, Compact Conformal Antennas on Flexible Substrates

This Phase I STTR program proposes to investigate the feasibility of constructing a reconfigurable antenna on a custom substrate. To this end, we propose to investigate a promising method by which the antenna's elements can be remotely interconnected. Additionally, NanoSonic's unique material methods will be applied to create antenna elements on flexible substrates or conformally applied to curved surfaces. This method allows conformal construction without de-bonding or cracking; it has been already been successfully applied to severe, doubly curved surfaces. In the creation of the substrate, particular attention will be directed toward the construction of a ferromagnetic composite. The NanoSonic team will characterize the resulting film's electromagnetic and mechanical properties. Following material and device characterization, NanoSonic will construct an antenna element for S-parameter evaluation. In support of these efforts, NanoSonic will work with the University of Kentucky (UK) to customize an advanced simulation model which will assist in the evaluation and selection of the proper materials. From this model, the radiation properties of test article can be evaluated. UK is a major research university, well respected in the measurement and computational electromagnetics communities. The team will also work with the antenna group from a major defense contractor.