Integrated Simulation of a MEMS-Based Phased Array Antenna

Abstract

We address the problem of simulating the complete behavior of a phased array antenna, creating a map between constructive parameters and the radiated beam. In this manner, we can control the relationship between gain and cost, in terms of the design and operation of the antenna. In order to carry out this type of simulation, we decompose the full system into its main components, and apply different finite element tools to each of these: electromagnetic effects at microwave frequencies are modeled with commercial EM solvers, HFSS from Ansoft and Feko from EM Software & Systems-S.A.; on the other hand, the particular type of phase shifting device, namely a micro-electro-mechanical (MEMS) switch, is modeled with a multiphysics tool, CoventorWare from Coventor, Inc. This type of switches constitute a relatively new technology for radio-frequency (RF) communications, allowing very small dissipation rates at high frequencies, as compared to their solid-state counterparts. However, the full extent of this advantage can only be appreciated when all the costs are integrated into one single tool, which is precisely the aim of our custom-made graphical tool.