Novel Paraffin Based mmW Variable Capacitors for Reconfigurable RF Microsystems

FREE PIZZA and refreshments will be provided!

Abstract

In the recent years, there is an increasing demand for low loss reconfigurable components such as antennas and phase shifters at mmW band. Reconfiguration can be achieved by utilizing varactor diodes, tunable materials or mechanically movable parts. At microwave frequencies, reconfigurable RF structures are realized by employing variable capacitors based on PIN diodes and FET switches. However, at mmW frequencies, these devices suffer from low-quality factor due to high losses. Although MEMS switches at mmW frequencies exhibit relatively low loss, they only operate at two discrete states with high actuation voltage which limits their application. In this presentation, we will introduce a new class of RF microsystems based on paraffin phase change material (PCM) which it is low loss and capable of continuous reconfiguration through its electro-thermo-mechanical actuation. A continuously reconfigurable antenna and a distrusted loaded line phase shifter based on paraffin PCM capacitors are presented. Electro-thermo-mechanical actuation of the device is evaluated using a fully coupled multiphysics simulation. A new fabrication method for the deposition of the thin paraffin film is developed and a fabrication process for the reconfigurable antenna is presented.

Bio

Behnam Ghassemiparvin received the B.S. degree in Electrical Engineering-Telecommunication from the University of Tabriz, Tabriz, Iran, in 2010 and the M.S. degree in Electrical and Electronics Engineering from Bilkent University, Ankara, Turkey, in 2012. He’s currently pursuing the Ph.D. degree in Electrical and Computer Engineering under the supervision of Prof. Nima Ghalichechian. His research focuses on mmW reconfigurable antennas and RF microsystems.