Implementation of Reconfigurable Patch Antennas Using Reed Switches

Implementing a reconfigurable patch antenna using reed switches avoids the need to place bias and control lines in the immediate vicinity of the radiating elements, and thereby avoids the attendant impacts on the radiation performance of the antenna. An example of such an antenna comprises a pair of hexagonal patches and a reed switch that connects the two patches at their adjacent vertices. Energizing a coil that either closes or latches the reed switch will shift the resonant frequency of the antenna. Because the coil and associated electronics are located beneath the ground plane, they do not materially affect the radiation performance of the antenna. The reed switches have the potential to be used in full-band and full-polarization antennas, and design concepts are given.