About this Abstract |
Meeting |
2021 Annual International Solid Freeform Fabrication Symposium (SFF Symp 2021)
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Symposium
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Applications
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Presentation Title |
Pushing the Limits of Printed RF: Advancing Towards Free-form Antennas, Waveguides, and Interconnects for X-band Applications |
Author(s) |
Katherine Berry, Samuel Fedorka, Bradley Pothier, Eric M. Brown, Craig Armiento, Alkim Akyurtlu, Gary F. Walsh, Corey Shemelya |
On-Site Speaker (Planned) |
Katherine Berry |
Abstract Scope |
Advanced manufacturing techniques for electromagnetic applications have advanced by leaps and bounds with recent advances in printing techniques. As such, there has been a push to produce flexible, freeform RF components at higher and higher frequencies. This project evaluates the printing constraints of antenna, waveguide, and component interconnects in the X-band (8-12 GHz) using direct-write micro-dispensing. Specifically, we investigate three printed waveguide feed designs: grounded coplanar, microstrip, and single layer coplanar. Each waveguide is evaluated with a printed receiving antenna, filter, and interconnects to a chip-based power amplifier. All results are assessed for geometric accuracy, surface/interfacial properties, DC/RF conductivity, and RF performance. The printed results are compared to simulations and duel clad laminate PCB boards to assess the process parameters and explore overall system integration. This work describes the fundamental printing properties required for X-band printed antenna systems, and requirements to move RF printed electronics into full, conformal geometries. |
Proceedings Inclusion? |
Definite: Post-meeting proceedings |