Reconfigurable metasurface with in-band transmission-reflection dynamic switching and wideband RCS reduction

Abstract Development of radar technology has driven the demand for advanced electromagnetic (EM) structures that not only can reduce radar cross section (RCS) but also enable efficient signal transmission as required. However, achieving a synergy between wideband RCS reduction and reconfigurable transmission on one platform remains a challenge, especially for the case where the incidence angle and polarization of EM waves are insensitive. Here, we propose a dual-polarized transmissive-reflective reconfigurable metasurface (TRRM) that enables real-time switching between in-band transmission and reflection modes while achieving wideband RCS reduction across entire operating frequencies in both modes. In such a metasurface, we use the diodes for dynamic EM transmission-reflection switching and incorporate curved-line miniaturized elements to enhance angular stability. To achieve wideband RCS reduction, the binary particle swarm optimization algorithm is adopted for the TRRM design. As a verification, a TRRM consisting of 6 × 6 subarrays is fabricated and measured. The results demonstrate that the TRRM can achieve reconfigurable transmission for incidence angles up to 50° and effective RCS reduction for incidence angles up to 30°. Our design provides a promising solution for radar related applications in complex and ever-changing EM environments.