A frequency reconfigurable slot antenna with a conductive microfluidic switching mechanism
King, Aaron J.
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https://hdl.handle.net/2142/30990
Description
Title
A frequency reconfigurable slot antenna with a conductive microfluidic switching mechanism
Author(s)
King, Aaron J.
Issue Date
2012-05-22T00:20:19Z
Director of Research (if dissertation) or Advisor (if thesis)
Bernhard, Jennifer T.
Department of Study
Electrical & Computer Eng
Discipline
Electrical & Computer Engr
Degree Granting Institution
University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign
Degree Name
M.S.
Degree Level
Thesis
Keyword(s)
frequency reconfigurable antenna
fluid antenna
liquid antenna
reconfigurable slot antenna
fluidic switching mechanism
Abstract
Reconfigurable antennas have the potential to provide functionality to radio systems which will make them more robust and allow for much more efficient use of the electromagnetic spectrum when combined with cognitive radio. High power applications, however, cannot benefit from the advances made in reconfigurable antenna technology in recent years due to the inability of current reconfiguration mechanisms to handle high power levels. Diodes suffer from nonlinear effects while RF MEMS have issues with self-actuation and stiction. Fluidic reconfiguration mechanisms provide an alternative to these devices which do not suffer from the same effects due to their passive behavior that is not influenced by RF signal strength. In order to investigate the suitability of fluidic conductor as a switch, a frequency reconfigurable slot antenna is designed using fluid-filled microchannels. A transmission line model is developed to provide an explanation for the behavior of the switches as well as a design procedure for the reconfigurable slot. The model is verified by building and measuring slot antennas using the microfluidic switches.
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