60 GHz liquid crystal phased array using reflection-type phase shifter

A novel compact microstrip reflection-type phase shifter controlled by liquid crystal is used to realize a slotted patch antenna array. This array has a beam steering capability in one dimension for 60 GHz applications. In this array each new phase shifter provides a differential phase shift of 79.4° at the center frequency of 63.5 GHz. The array elements (the slotted patch antennas) are coupled to the microstrip feed line through coupling slots. The final design comprises of a 4 × 1 slotted patch array capable of scanning up to 27° in the E-plane as the bias voltage on the liquid crystal changes from zero to saturation voltage.