Low-cost hardware for a time-domain microwave system for breast health monitoring

In this paper, we present recent advancements in the design of a multilayer flexible circuit board for use in a time-domain microwave system for breast health monitoring. The flexible circuit contains both a switching network and 16 wideband antennas. This paper focuses on recent design improvements in the antenna array and the switching network. Specifically we have re-designed the switching network to require fewer control wires, integrated new and smaller antennas in the array, and modified the antenna arrangement to improve the flexibility of the circuit to better integrate with our clinical prototype. These design changes represent a step towards a more patient-friendly, compact, cost-effective, and wearable system design, in contrast to one that employs large bench-top devices.