Dual frequency reflectarray cell using split-ring elements with RF MEMS switches

In this study, a dual frequency circularly polarized reconfigurable reflectarray (RA) cell with RF-MEMS switches is designed. RA combines the advantages of reflector-based and phased array antennas, providing a low-cost and high performance antenna array solution. In their reconfigurable implementations, RAs are capable of electronic beam scanning/forming with potential multiband operation, as discussed here. In this work, reconfigurability is achieved by series RF-MEMS switches that are placed on the ring strips. Switches are used to change the orientation of the gaps to realize the rotation of the element. The RA antenna composed of these elements will be capable of beamsteering independently for the two operating frequencies. In the following section the RA unit cell geometry is presented, some simulation results are given, and the phase design curve is discussed.