Reconfigurable Beam Steering Conformal Array Antenna for 3.5 GHz 5G Applications

In this paper, we present the development of a flexible beam-steering conformal array antenna intended for 5G applications at 3.5 GHz. The antenna design employs a 1x2 array microstrip configuration as the fundamental radiating element, seamlessly mounted on a hexagonal framework to achieve the desired conformal shape. We have integrated an RF switch-loaded reconfigurable feed network with the conformal array geometry to efficiently distribute signals to the radiating elements and enable beam steering capabilities. By precisely controlling the RF switch settings in the feed network, we achieve six distinct angular separation beams (Sectors I to VI) with a generous scanning angle of 60°. The proposed antenna is compact and provides a maximum gain of 10 dBi. The suggested conformal array antenna improves capacity, conserves power, and reduces interference in a highly scattered environment by directing the beam in the desired direction.