Novel Slot Array Mechanical Reconfiguration Approach Based on Accordion Structure and Micro-actuator

A novel approach to mechanical reconfiguration is demonstrated with an
$8\times 8$
slot array operating at 16 GHz. Accordion structures connected to a microactuator are used to vary element spacing while maintaining uniformity, yielding 30° of continuous scanning with high polarization purity. This proposed design allows a significant reduction in cost, size, and complexity when compared to standard electrical reconfiguration approaches. The combined ease of integration and high power handling capabilities make this approach a candidate for next-generation reconfigurable antennas arrays.