A generalized approach to the analysis of infinite planar array antennas

Abstract

In this paper a generalized expression for the complex power radiated by an element in an infinite planar array antenna is derived. Since this power formula applies to a large class of phased array antennas where the aperture field distribution can be completely specified (in normal mode form), it proves to be a powerful, unifying principle. The utility of this approach is illustrated by the simplicity with which previously known results can be derived; e.g., an infinite array of slots in a ground plane and an infinite array of flat dipoles with or without a ground plane. Further demonstrations of the usefulness of the power formula are provided by the systematic and straightforward solutions of the less-well-known problems of infinite arrays of crossed-dipole pairs and infinite arrays of open-ended rectangular waveguides. The waveguide array solution is particularly interesting because it reduces to a set of equations which are identical to those one would use to characterize an N-port network on an admittance basis (N is the number of waveguide modes). Since the power formula is derived for a parallelogram element Lattice, the resultant solution for a specific type of element is in its most general form. Expressions for the scan-dependent, dominant mode radiation admittance and the element gain function for a multimode rectangular waveguide radiator are also derived. In addition, various aspects of the waveguide array solution are investigated in the light of previous studies of infinite arrays.