Date Approved
2024
Graduate Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Engineering (M.S.E.)
Degree Program
School of Engineering
First Advisor
Dr. Atilla Cakmak
Second Advisor
Dr. Heidi Jiao
Third Advisor
Dr. Brian Krug
Academic Year
2024/2025
Abstract
The manipulation of microwave signals is critical in the information and communication technology industry. This research investigates the application of time-coding techniques on metasurfaces to achieve tunable control of electromagnetic signal transmission. The integration of mounted PIN diodes facilitates dynamic modulation of signal behavior. Both passive (without PIN diodes) and active (with PIN diodes) metasurfaces were analyzed through simulations using Ansys HFSS and validated with experimental measurements. A major contribution of this work is the design and testing of active metasurfaces that leverage PIN diodes for harmonic generation and amplitude modulation. The study reveals a clear relationship between modulating signal characteristics and harmonic output, enabling frequency-specific transmission control. To support this, a custom PCB was developed to generate pulse width modulation (PWM) signals for diode control, ensuring reliable and tunable operation. These findings demonstrate the potential of programmable metasurfaces for electromagnetic wave manipulation, offering compact, efficient, and integrative solutions for modern communication systems.
ScholarWorks Citation
Mares, Steve, "Tunable Metasurface for Efficient Harmonic Generation and Amplitude Modulation" (2024). Masters Theses. 1134.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/theses/1134
