Antenna Electronically Steered Using MEMS Phase Shifters

An experimental phased-array microwave antenna assembly includes an array of eight patch antenna elements connected to Microelectromechanical System (MEMS) phase shifters, by means of which the directional radiation pattern of the antenna can be controlled electronically. The antenna and the MEMS-based phase shifters were designed for a nominal operating frequency of 17 GHz. In addition, some 35-GHz MEMS phase shifters were designed, built, and tested. This work is part of a continuing effort to develop relatively inexpensive electronically steerable antennas.