Ferroelectric lens phased array antenna with interdigitated electrodes

The ferroelectric lens is a new type of phased array antenna. It uniquely incorporates bulk phase shifting using ferroelectric material to reduce the cost of the phased array. The array does not contain an individual phase shifter at each radiating element. So far, the work performed to develop the ferroelectric lens has included thick bulk ferroelectric material, which requires bias voltage of over 10 kV to provide 360 degrees phase shift. This paper presents the results of a recent effort in developing a small column of the lens that uses much thinner material with interdigitated electrodes. This technique will reduce the bias voltage requirements for the ferroelectric lens. A brief review of the ferroelectric lens concept is also included.