Waveguides for high-frequency signals have traditionally been realised using bulky three dimensional structures (e.g. coaxial cable, rectangular/circular waveguides supporting non-TEM modes, etc). However, recently there has been some interest in developing planar waveguiding structures using metasurfaces. Metasurfaces are two-dimensional equivalents of metamaterials, which are structures that contain a repeating microstructure - the elements of which are much smaller than a wavelength. Although the basic design of metasurfaces is well understood, high-performance designs (which have low loss and low dispersion) can be challenging to realise.
In 2017 a working prototype of a metasurface waveguide was sucessfully produced, and an appropriate waveguide launching structure was designed in 2021. This project will be extended this year to consider additional bend geometries, improved launching structures and designs which minimise the overall waveguide dimensions by (i) identifying appropriate implementation strategies; (ii) designing, modelling and optimising these structures using CST Studio Suite/Microwave Studio; and (iii) fabricating the design(s) and measuring their performance.
Undergraduate
A design for an improved waveguide launching structure and constraint specifications for bend geometries.
Prerequisite ELECTENG307, corequisite ELECTENG721.
Radio Systems (405.736, Lab)