Tunable dielectric resonator antennas using voltage-controlled mechanical deformation

We present a new concept for compact, tunable antennas. Traditional approaches have circuits and switchable elements which can be bulky and lossy. Here we investigate structures which offer direct tuning through voltage-controlled deformation of the radiating structure itself. The antenna is a dielectric resonator (DRA), where the antenna impedance and tuning depends on the shape of the dielectric. The deformation action is through using electro-active polymer (EAP) for the dielectric. EAPs have promising properties for smart antennas and ongoing developments are continuing to improve its suitability.