Dynamic adaptable antenna arrays for wireless communication networks

Abstract

Many wireless systems are being incorporated into a single device. Combining different wireless systems in one package simplifies circuitry, increases efficiency and allows users to use one interface to access many systems. Phased arrays and retrodirective arrays improve the performance at the antenna front end. Reconfigurable networks eliminate redundant circuitry in the wireless subsystems and allow sharing of specific components. This thesis presents advances in satellite-to-satellite communication systems, mobile terrestrial to satellite systems, and a method of characterizing a class of reconfigurable circuits. First, a two-dimensional retrodirective array using quadruple subharmonic mixing is designed at 10.5 GHz for satellite-to-satellite communication. Two small satellites demonstrated a retrodirective link with tracking ranging from -40° to 40°. Secondly, a two-dimensional transmit frequency-controlled phased array is presented. Simple voltage controlled steering of the phased array makes for easy integration with external tracking and control systems. A scanning range of 40° per axis has been demonstrated. Lastly a method for characterizing a reconfigurable MEMS tunable matching network has been presented and verified by circuit simulation. As more systems require communication at different frequencies, variable-frequency components require using tunable matching networks. Characterization of the matching networks becomes an issue when troubleshooting modules within wireless communication devices.