Terahertz reflective beam scanning antenna based on liquid crystal

Abstract:

A terahertz electrically controlled reflective phase shifter based on liquid crystal is proposed as well as its beam scanning array antenna. By using the slotted structure, the problems of uneven orientation, edge effect and increased saturation voltage due to the insufficient coverage of resonant layer in the process of liquid crystal regulation can be solved. A phase shifter with three slots at 380 GHz is designed, and the surface current distribution and resonance frequency points are simulated. The numerical results show that the phase shifter can achieve 360°phase shift in 377-392 GHz when the relative dielectric constant of liquid crystal changes in 2.47-3.26. An electronically controlled beam scanning array antenna operating at 380 GHz is designed by using a reflective phase-shifting unit with three slots. One dimensional beam scanning within 30°is realized, and the main lobe gain is greater than 20 dBi.