Engineering applications and technical challenges of active array microsystems

Abstract

In the post-Moore era, the development of active phased array antennas will inevitably trend towards active array microsystems. In this paper, the characteristics and composition of the active array antenna are briefly described. Owing to the high efficiency, low profile, and light weight of the active array microsystems, the application prospects and advantages in the engineering of multi-functional airborne radar, spaceborne radar, and communication systems are analyzed. Moreover, according to the characteristics of the post-Moore era of integrated circuits, scientific and technological problems in the active array microsystems are presented, including multi-scale, multi-signal, and multi-physics field coupling. The challenges are also discussed, such as new architectures and algorithms, miniaturization of passive components, novel materials and processes, ultra-wideband technology, and new interdisciplinary technological applications. This paper is expected to inspire in-depth research on active array microsystems.