Advanced Metasurface Design and Integration for Multiple Electromagnetic Systems

Doctoral Candidate Name: 
Kristy Hecht
Program: 
Electrical and Computer Engineering
Abstract: 

This dissertation explores the fascinating realm of metamaterials and electromagnetic engineering, with a focus on metasurfaces, dual-polarization metascreens, novel dual-band antennas, and time-varying components. Metasurfaces, two-dimensional arrays of subwavelength structures, offer compact solutions to manipulate electromagnetic waves, finding applications in optical devices, imaging systems, communication, and sensing.

The pivotal contribution of this research is the development of dual-polarization metascreens, which enable simultaneous control of horizontal and vertical polarizations. This innovation enhances radar systems, wireless communication, and remote sensing by rapidly switching between polarizations, improving data rates and accuracy.

The dissertation further explores dual-layered antennas operating in Ka and W bands, addressing unique challenges and expanding the boundaries of electromagnetic engineering. This breakthrough has applications in connectivity technology, radar systems, and millimeter-wave technologies.

Additionally, the study emphasizes the importance of rapid dispersion curve calculations and 3D printing for antenna design, accelerating research and development in communication, sensing, and connectivity technologies.

The dissertation concludes by delving into the emerging field of time-varying parameters, particularly time-varying networks composed of lumped elements. This research introduces a novel approach involving aperiodic time modulation of a single capacitor to capture energy from arbitrary pulses. These innovations promise new functionalities in electromagnetic systems, highlighting the interdisciplinary and innovative nature of this research.

In summary, this dissertation covers a wide range of topics in electromagnetic engineering and photonics, showcasing innovative applications and pushing the boundaries of the field.

Defense Date and Time: 
Friday, October 13, 2023 - 1:00pm
Defense Location: 
EPIC 2344
Committee Chair's Name: 
Mario Junior Mencagli
Committee Members: 
Mike Fiddy, Tino Hofmann, Aidan Browne