Ferroelectric/paraelectric/composite material loaded phased array network

摘要

The present invention is directed generally to phased array antennas. The invention allows for the realization of a low-cost, ferroelectric material loaded feed manifold for phase shifting an antenna. This type of architecture can take many forms, with the preferred embodiment being waveguide. In an embodiment of the present invention, the Ferroelectric/Paralectric/Composite material loaded feed manifold described herein may solve the space/weight problem by integrating the material into the traditional waveguide feed manifold. A feed structure suitable for receiving and routing electromagnetic energy may include a subassembly including material suitable for shifting phase of electromagnetic radiation when an electrical field is applied. Material having a dielectric constant at least one of equal to and greater than the phase shifting material may also be included.