Moving forward in retrodirective antenna arrays

Antenna arrays are individual radiating elements combined so that they function and perform like a single large antenna. Besides high radiating beam directionality, antenna arrays offer the capability to scan the main beam and control sidelobe radiation electronically. Retrodirective antenna arrays, as the name suggests, have a special feature. When receiving a signal from an unspecified direction, the array can automatically transmit a signal response to that same direction without any previous knowledge of the source direction. This function is performed automatically without the use of phase-shifters or digital circuitry. Compared to other array antennas that rely on digital signal processing (DSP) for beam direction control, this approach is much simpler and potentially faster because digital calculation is not needed. The automatic beam control nature of retrodirective arrays is well suited for RFID (radio frequency identification) and microwave tracking beacon applications. The article discusses the basic functionality as well as the ongoing research efforts and developments in retrodirective array architectures. Self-phasing attributes of different arrays are presented, as well as their applicability in practical communication systems.