학술논문

Multi-material Printed Microwave Element for Phased Array Applications
Document Type
Conference
Source
2019 22nd European Microelectronics and Packaging Conference & Exhibition (EMPC) European Microelectronics and Packaging Conference & Exhibition (EMPC), 2019 22nd. :1-6 Sep, 2019
Subject
Components, Circuits, Devices and Systems
Photonics and Electrooptics
Power, Energy and Industry Applications
Ink
Dielectrics
Integrated circuit interconnections
Phased arrays
Microwave circuits
Antenna measurements
printed
additive
multi-material
ink
interconnects
RF/microwave
Language
Abstract
To realize additive manufacturing for microwave applications, full component solutions integrated with MMIC amplifiers are needed. A key obstacle is the utilization of multiple materials within integrated 3D printed electronics. The aim of this work is to demonstrate feasibility of printed multi-material structures that perform well at microwave frequencies. To show the efficacy of additive processing and materials for microwave applications, we designed and fabricated a C-Band phased array single element as a demonstration vehicle. We present design, simulated and measured results of the fully printed passive networks as well as characterization of materials and manufacturing processes required to realize a printed C-Band phased array single element. Passive networks are integrated with MMIC amplifiers within the channel. The technical challenges that were overcome include elimination of wirebonds through printed interconnects, fabricating 3-dimensional RF component structures that reduce the x-y footprint for the intended functionality, and creating tunable structures that allow for adaptation during the additive manufacturing process.