3D Beamforming Coupler for 2D Waveguides Using Dielectric Scatterer Array

Abstract

: We propose a novel directional antenna device that couples 2D guided microwaves with 3D radiated beams. It consists of a dielectric scatterer array aligned in two-dimensional periodicity on a planar surface-waveguide. Each scatterer radiates a portion of the incident guided wave in a location-dependent linear phase delay. Therefore, the directivity of the synthesized scattered wave is controllable by tuning the period of the scatterers. We derive a guideline to design the scatterer pattern for beamforming and verify it with numerical simulations. Since the proposed method works reversibly both on sending and receiving, microwave paths for wireless communication and sensing can be designed smartly.