Microwave and Millimeter-Wave Active Antennas for IOT Applications

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Advanced wireless components such as radiofrequency antennas and miniature transmitters/receivers are urgently needed for 5G, IoT and autonomous vehicle applications, among other intelligent communicating systems. This research investigates novel approaches to the realization of "active antennas", i.e. intimately integrated electronic/sensing/amplifying/filtering/converting/distributing elements with antennas in the 1-100 GHz range, fabricated with advanced semiconductor/nanotech devices and emerging inkjet printed/flexible substrate technologies. Active component reconfigurability required for self-healing and changing field conditions are to be explored. The proposed research program builds on three major technology thrusts pursued by the applicant over the past several years: 1. Pioneering FPMS technology: The Field Programmable Microwave Substrate, introduced by the applicant's team, is now being more fully exploited and holds great promise for realizing highly reconfigurable wireless components in a compact format. 2. Novel materials and fabrication techniques: The advent of nanoparticle and composite materials, advanced ceramics, microfluidics and printed electronics have paved the way for the realization of several novel component designs that are low-cost and environmentally friendly. 3. Heterogeneous technology integration and multichip modules: The innovative combination of advanced GaN, Si and other MMIC technologies with novel multilayer circuit antenna architectures can enable increased functionality and higher performance-to-cost components. A common scientific approach across these three thrusts will be taken, involving multidisciplinary and integrative investigations. First, research problem identification and definition will occur, addressing key wireless IoT technological challenges such as form factor (i.e. size, weight, cost, material constraints), energy harvesting and self-powering, and functionality requirements (i.e. range, frequency bands, full duplexing, reconfigurability, etc.). This will then lead to conceptual designs (i.e. candidate enabling technologies and system/circuit/antenna architectures). Next, a more specific design and optimization of novel microwave/mmwave wireless components will take place using theoretical/analytical techniques augmented by Advanced Design System, HFSS and other similar circuit and EM software simulation tools. The results are expected to be highly impactful. As wireless capability is built in to more and more products (e.g. home/kitchen appliances, everyday clothing and footwear, warehouse robots, etc.) the availability of low-cost, eco-friendly, flexible, tunable, self-powered wireless connectivity is of critical importance. The proofs-of-concept of selected advanced wireless components demonstrated in the proposed research will be instrumental to the wider deployment of intelligent autonomous systems, positively contributing to the well-being of people and the Canadian economy.