Mechanically reconfigurable slotted-waveguide antenna array for 5G networks

Abstract

This paper proposes a high-gain mechanically reconfigurable antenna array based on a ring-shaped slotted-waveguide antenna for mm-wave applications. A full scanning range in the azimuthal plane is ensured by proper mechanically rotating a metallic jacket, which partially covers the array radiating structure. The technique provides a beamwidth of 37° in the azimuth plane and gain of 17.41 dBi at the operating frequency of 27.3 GHz. Significantly, unlike a conventional phased array, this approach does not suffer from: scan loss, beam broadening or SLL degradation. Experimental results of the array element and numerical results of the antenna array demonstrate its applicability in 5G cellular networks.