This paper presents the design and analysis of a dual-band patch antenna that leverages the reconfigurability of Minkowski fractal geometry to achieve frequency agility. The proposed antenna incorporates Radio Frequency Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (RF-MEMS) switches to selectively activate different iterations of the Minkowski fractal, thereby enabling dynamic tuning of the operating frequency bands. This reconfiguration mechanism allows for effective miniaturization, particularly at lower frequencies, without altering the overall physical dimensions of the antenna. Each additional fractal iteration results in a shift of the resonance towards lower frequencies, a behavior that is exploited to maintain compactness while achieving dual-band functionality. The antenna has been specifically optimized to operate in the 1 GHz and 4 GHz frequency bands, and its performance has been validated through full-wave electromagnetic simulations using a commercial software tool. The resulting design is characterized by a compact footprint, structural simplicity, and low manufacturing cost, making it an excellent candidate for space-constrained platforms such as small satellites and CubeSats. Furthermore, the integration of RF-MEMS technology offers high precision in switching and improved reliability compared to traditional tuning elements, further enhancing the antenna’s applicability in modern reconfigurable communication systems.
RF-MEMS-controlled Minkowski fractal antenna for dual-band applications
Dal Chiele I.;
2025-01-01
Abstract
This paper presents the design and analysis of a dual-band patch antenna that leverages the reconfigurability of Minkowski fractal geometry to achieve frequency agility. The proposed antenna incorporates Radio Frequency Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (RF-MEMS) switches to selectively activate different iterations of the Minkowski fractal, thereby enabling dynamic tuning of the operating frequency bands. This reconfiguration mechanism allows for effective miniaturization, particularly at lower frequencies, without altering the overall physical dimensions of the antenna. Each additional fractal iteration results in a shift of the resonance towards lower frequencies, a behavior that is exploited to maintain compactness while achieving dual-band functionality. The antenna has been specifically optimized to operate in the 1 GHz and 4 GHz frequency bands, and its performance has been validated through full-wave electromagnetic simulations using a commercial software tool. The resulting design is characterized by a compact footprint, structural simplicity, and low manufacturing cost, making it an excellent candidate for space-constrained platforms such as small satellites and CubeSats. Furthermore, the integration of RF-MEMS technology offers high precision in switching and improved reliability compared to traditional tuning elements, further enhancing the antenna’s applicability in modern reconfigurable communication systems.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
