A Semi-Hemispherical High Q-Factor Resonators Fabricated using a Hybrid Rigid-Flex Process

In this paper, a 3D printed high-Q semihemispherical resonator fed by a coax-like transmission line is demonstrated. The semi hemispherical resonator was fabricated using polyjet printing followed by blanket metalization. It is coupled to a two-part coax-like transmission line using a slot in the 3D printed structure. The coax-like structure is fabricated using a hybrid process, combining 3D printing and fine line patterning using microlithography. Unloaded Q-factor of >8000 is measured near 44 GHz. This work shows that a 3D printed high-Q resonator can readily be coupled with microfabricated circuits on a printed circuit board or a flex substrate. Details of design, fabrication, and measurements are presented, and the measured and simulation results match closely.