Tuneable EBG phase shifters for antenna applications

This paper investigates the concept of using optically controlled Electromagnetic Band Gap (EBG) phase shifters for antenna applications at microwave frequencies. Optically activated switches, and EBG based - phase shifters offer the benefits of continuous, quick and low interference characteristics. In addition, the rapidly growing communication market demands for compact and low cost antenna systems operating at micro/mm-wave frequencies and even beyond. Such smart antenna systems have the capability of targeting the following applications due to their unique advantages (size, weight, speed of operation, robustness and EMC issues) over existing/traditional products: (1) military communications (RF equipment, global position infrastructure), (2) networking (matrix switching systems and router technologies), (3) communications (RF devices, such as optically activated switches, antennas and filters), (4) medical imaging (Terahertz imaging technology), and security (screening).