Reconfigurable Antennas Based on RF MEMS Switches

Background: Generally, the functionality of reconfigurable antennas is achieved by changing the topological structure controlled by RF switches. Compared with traditional antennas, reconfigurable antennas have many advantages, such as multi-function, small size, light weight, good diversity. Therefore, reconfigurable antennas will be an important part in MIMO systems, cognitive radio systems and future communication systems. Objective: This paper mainly focuses on the reconfigurable antennas based on RF MEMS switches. In this paper, various recent patents are also presented and discussed. Method: Firstly, the working principle and classification of reconfigurable antennas based on RF switches are introduced. Reconfigurable antennas can be grouped into four categories: frequency reconfigurable antennas, pattern reconfigurable antennas, polarization reconfigurable antennas and compound reconfigurable antennas. Secondly, the research status of RF MEMS switches is presented and the advantages of the RF MEMS switches are summed up. Moreover, the applications of RF MEMS switches in the related four kinds of reconfigurable antennas are introduced, respectively. Results: At last, the current and future developments of patents and academic papers in reconfigurable antennas are discussed.