Session
Session XI: Advanced Technologies 3
Abstract
This paper will discuss the performance and adaptability of a microfluidic reconfiguration mechanism in a small array. Discussion will also include its ability to reduce system degradation resulting from complexity and physical limitations incurred from the close spatial proximity of bias/control systems on or near the antenna. Implementation of the microfluidic mechanism can reduce or mitigate the interactions between individual mechanisms within the aperture and increase the competitiveness of microfluidics over current state-of-the-art. Research at Texas A&M University in conjunction with the Space Engineering Institute, has developed a novel frequency reconfiguration system for antennas using electromagnetically functionalized colloidal dispersions (EFCDs). These EFCDs are electrostatically-stabilized dispersions of magnetodielectric colloidal nanoparticles in a low-loss non-aqueous fluid. As proof-of-concept a 1x2 array of linearly polarized microstrip patch antennas with parallel capillary structures is presented. Several theoretical considerations, models, simulated results, and measured results will be provided. The results include impedance data and radiation behavior as well as effects of the applied fields on the nanoparticles.
Presentation Slides
Frequency Reconfiguration of a Small Array Enabled by Functionalized Dispersions of Colloidal Material
This paper will discuss the performance and adaptability of a microfluidic reconfiguration mechanism in a small array. Discussion will also include its ability to reduce system degradation resulting from complexity and physical limitations incurred from the close spatial proximity of bias/control systems on or near the antenna. Implementation of the microfluidic mechanism can reduce or mitigate the interactions between individual mechanisms within the aperture and increase the competitiveness of microfluidics over current state-of-the-art. Research at Texas A&M University in conjunction with the Space Engineering Institute, has developed a novel frequency reconfiguration system for antennas using electromagnetically functionalized colloidal dispersions (EFCDs). These EFCDs are electrostatically-stabilized dispersions of magnetodielectric colloidal nanoparticles in a low-loss non-aqueous fluid. As proof-of-concept a 1x2 array of linearly polarized microstrip patch antennas with parallel capillary structures is presented. Several theoretical considerations, models, simulated results, and measured results will be provided. The results include impedance data and radiation behavior as well as effects of the applied fields on the nanoparticles.
