Design Optimization of RF-MEMS Based Multiband Reconfigurable Antenna Using Response Surface Methodology

Abstract

In the world of modern wireless communication systems, it is required to have a device that can operate for multiple resonating frequencies. For this purpose, reconfigurable antenna is used that can alter the operating frequency, return loss, polarization and radiation patterns. Fractal shapes are the most suitable candidate for reconfigurable antenna due to their multiband resonating behavior. This work explains the Optimization of Reconfigurable Fractal Gasket Antenna for its operation for 4G and 5G mobile applications with minimum return losses. Its reconfiguration is realized through four sets of Radio Frequency (RF) Micro-electromechanical Systems (MEMS) switches. Depending upon the operating (on/off) conditions of the switches, the output responses (resonance frequency and return loss) of the antenna can be varied. The optimization of the structure is carried out by Design of Experiments (DOE) based Response Surface Methodology (RSM). The Face Centered Central Composite Design model is used to develop the response surface models and meta-models for RSM based optimization. The desirability function and heuristic search algorithm method is used to work out the optimized values of the design parameters and corresponding output responses. The DOE based RSM is carried out by using Design Expert 12 software, whereas ANSYS Electronics Desktop 2017.2 is used to design, simulate and analyze the Antenna structure for 10 MHz to 16 GHz frequency range. In this way, the resulting Antenna is capable of operating at multiple frequency bands including 4G and 5G mobile applications.