A Novel Integrated Absorber/Reflector/Radiator Based on Switchable Electric/Magnetic Conductor Antenna

A truly integrated absorber/reflector/radiator (ARR) utilizing a switchable electric/magnetic conductor (SEMC) antenna is presented in this paper. Two independent direct current (DC) bias circuits are utilized to alternate the function of top layer and bottom SEMC antenna. The operation principle of ARR is analyzed, and its design strategies are outlined. The switchable absorber/reflector is firstly constructed by activating or deactivating the p-i-n diodes within dual square-loops resonator of top layer. Moreover, its physical mechanism is examined using the corresponding equivalent circuit model. Then, the SEMC dipole array antenna, exhibiting perfect electric conductor (PEC)-like reflection in ON state and operating as a low-profile antenna backed by an artificial magnetic conductor (AMC) in OFF state, is employed to replace the grounded metal plate of absorber/reflector for establishing the ARR. Radiation and scattering performances are investigated respectively, revealing that the integrated ARR exhibits multifunction encompassing wideband absorption, frequency selective reflection, and high gain radiation. Finally, a sample of the proposed ARR is fabricated and experimentally tested, demonstrating a good agreement between observed and simulated results.