Broadband metamaterial linear polarization converter designed by a hybrid neural network with data augmentation

Deep learning techniques provide a new approach to the design and optimization of electromagnetic metamaterials. This study used a convolutional neural network and long short-term memory (CNN–LSTM) hybrid network to design and optimize a broadband metamaterial reflective linear polarization converter. The data augmentation method was also employed in few-shot learning to reduce optimization costs and improve model prediction performance. With the inverse prediction, a linear polarization converter that perfectly covers the Ku-band was obtained and fabricated with flexible printed circuit technology. Both simulation and experimental results indicate that this network can accurately predict the structural parameters. The polarization converter not only achieves remarkable broadband polarization conversion efficiency spanning the 2.2–18 GHz range but also maintains precise cross-polarization control across the entire Ku-band. The mean polarization conversion ratio in the Ku-band was calculated to be an impressive 99.69%. Finally, the mechanism of polarization conversion and the influence of each structural parameter on its performance further verify the optimality of the inverse design model. The use of CNN–LSTM deep learning methods significantly simplified the design process of electromagnetic metamaterials, reducing design costs while ensuring high design precision and excellent performance.