Pattern Reconfigurable Antenna Using A Functional Material for MMW Application

Abstract

This paper introduces a novel reconfigurable antenna for controlling radiation beam direction by using integrated phase-change material (PCM). A PCM GeTe-based parasitic patch considered as a switchable element between insulator and conductive states is applied to operate with a driven patch radiator. The direction of the radiation pattern of the antenna can be tilted by changing the state of the GeTebased patch from its insulator to conductive state. Obtained resultshows that the proposed technique is effective to control the beam direction of the antenna. Around a 40° titled angle is achieved by the insulator-to-conductor activation of the GeTe patch which can be realized by an optical source, making the antenna simple and compact without extra bias circuit. Hence, the antenna is suitable for millimeter-wave applications.