A wideband and multibeam pattern reconfigurable antenna using partially reflecting surface

Abstract This paper presents a pattern reconfigurable antenna that accomplishes wideband and multibeam characteristics. The antenna design comprises a cross-slot radiator as the primary element and reconfigurable partially reflecting surface (PRS) layer placed above and below the cross-slot radiator. This configuration allows the antenna to adapt its radiation patterns effectively. The choice of the cross-slot radiator is based on its capability to offer wideband characteristics. The PRS layer consists of a precisely arranged array of 4×4 unit cells, incorporating PIN diodes into both the upper and lower PRS layers. The direction of radiation pattern can be changed by altering operating states of the PIN diodes on the PRS layer. The antenna operates in three distinct states, each exhibiting a unique radiation pattern. The antenna produces broadside, backward, and bidirectional radiation patterns. It demonstrates effective pattern reconfigurability across the frequency range of 3.10–3.86 GHz (21.71%), with a peak gain of 9.60 dBi. The simulated and measured results of the antenna are found to be in good agreement.