Wideband reflective array based on loaded metal rings

Wideband spiraphase-type reflective arrays based on loaded metal rings are analyzed. It is demonstrated that these arrays can redirect an incident circularly polarized wave in the directions determined by elevation angles up to 40° in a 2:1 frequency band with conversion loss less than 1 dB. A full-wave mathematical model has been developed to predict the characteristics of these arrays. This mathematical model was used for the synthesis of two arrays for X-Ku and K-Ka bands. Minimotor-driven elements have been designed and fabricated for the X-Ku band reflective array to test their switching velocity.