Continuously variable filter

摘要

A continuously variable filter ( 110 ) that includes at least one filter element ( 146 ). The filter also includes a fluidic dielectric ( 108 ) having a permittivity and a permeability, a composition processor ( 101 ) adapted for dynamically changing a composition of the fluidic dielectric ( 108 ), and a controller ( 136 ) for controlling the composition processor ( 101 ) to selectively vary the permittivity and/or the permeability in response to a filter control signal ( 137 ). The filter element ( 146 ) is at least partially coupled to the fluidic dielectric ( 108 ). A second fluidic dielectric having a different composition than the first fluidic dielectric can be provided and a second filter element ( 148 ) can be partially coupled to the second fluidic dielectric. The controller ( 136 ) and composition processor ( 101 ) also can be adapted for varying the permittivity and/or permeabiliity of the fluidic dielectric ( 108 ).