Grant Heileman ITEA Personal Statement

1/06/2017

RF Testing and Evaluation

. With the use of a Voxel8 3D printer, I am developing Liquid Crystal

(LC) microstrip phased arrays. Although LC phased arrays have been

constructed before, the utilization of 3D printed structures is unique. This

requires an intimate knowledge and rigorous characterization of absolutely

every aspect of the system, from the analysis of materials to the evaluation of

phase shifter algorithms. Through use of a Keysight N5247A PNA-X and a

coaxial probe, material measurements are conducted and the results are

used to improve CAD simulations. The CAD models, from these

simulations, are exported and printed using a Voxel8 3D printer. The

manufactured antennas S-parameters are measured using the same VNA,

and are compared to the simulation results. After this, an algorithm will be

developed to control the LC bias voltage. By observing the beam steering

caused through variation of the LC bias voltage, the algorithm can be honed

to produce optimal results. Throughout the development of this system, the

viability for use in space applications is tested. A SRS Residual Gas

Analyzer (RGA) measures the outgassing of the plastic substrate and an

Instron is used to determine structural differences.