Origami Microwave Imaging Array: Metasurface Tiles on a Shape‐Morphing Surface for Reconfigurable Computational Imaging

Abstract

Origami is the art of paper folding that allows a single flat piece of paper to assume different 3D shapes depending on the fold patterns and the sequence of folding. Using the principles of origami along with computation imaging technique the authors demonstrate a versatile shape‐morphing microwave imaging array with reconfigurable field‐of‐view and scene‐adaptive imaging capability. Microwave/millimeter‐wave based array imaging systems are expected to be the workhorse for sensory perception of future autonomous intelligent systems. The imaging capability of a planar array‐based systems operating in complex scattering conditions have limited field‐of‐view and lack the ability to adaptively reconfigure resolution. To overcome this, here, deviations from planarity and isometry are allowed, and a shape‐morphing computational imaging system is demonstrated. Implemented on a reconfigurable Waterbomb origami surface with 22 active metasurface panels that radiate near‐orthogonal modes across 17–27 GHz, capability to image complex 3D objects in full details minimizing the effects of specular reflections in diffraction‐limited sparse imaging with scene adaptability, reconfigurable cross‐range resolution, and field‐of‐view is demonstrated. Such electromagnetic origami surfaces, through simultaneous surface shape‐morphing ability (potentially with shape‐shifting electronic materials) and electromagnetic field programmability, opens up new avenues for intelligent and robust sensing and imaging systems for a wide range of applications.

Frontiers in Flexible and Shape-Changing Arrays

“…In [49], the authors demonstrate an important practical advantage of a mechanically shape-changing array with rigid radiators, namely-control of the field-of-view of the radiation pattern. This feature is particularly useful in imaging systems, where it can add a fundamentally independent modality to diversity measurement methods, in order, for example, to handle highly reflective planar interference, or to reduce the effects of specular reflections.…”

“…These cables and connectors constrain the array mechanically. [75] uses an entire side of the array to interface with its phase control units limiting scalability, and [49] requires an RF interface with each individual element. The arrays which are not fully integrated shapechanging arrays ( [75] and [49]) also require additional external circuitry for their operation.…”

“…[75] uses an entire side of the array to interface with its phase control units limiting scalability, and [49] requires an RF interface with each individual element. The arrays which are not fully integrated shapechanging arrays ( [75] and [49]) also require additional external circuitry for their operation. This external circuitry and cabling brings added mass and rigidity which precludes some of the intended applications for shape-changing arrays.…”

“…While these specific demonstrated arrays were not fully integrated, there is no fundamental barrier to integrating additional circuitry onto their demonstrated shape-changing components. For example, the Waterbomb origami surface and wideband metasurface radiators of [49] could be combined with multifunction, panelized electronics similar to [72].…”

“…Shape-change itself can also be intentionally leveraged to dynamically alter antenna properties such as aperture size or field of view. In [49], shape-change is used to add measurement diversity and improve image quality for a microwave imaging array. The progression from rigid, static pattern arrays to electronically steerable, shapechanging arrays is shown in Fig.…”