An analysis and design tool for a broadband dual feed circles array antenna

The development of an analysis and design tool for the investigation of a broadband array antenna of circular elements under development at US Naval Air Development Center is described. The purpose of this tool is to predict the radiation pattern and input impedance over the frequency range of interest (400 MHz to 1.4 GHz). This tool includes a method of moment code specifically tailored to produce the near- and far-field characteristics of the array antenna. The information obtained is used for improvement of the radiation characteristics as well as the feed network design. The numerical results produced by this tool agree well with the measurements made on the scaled prototype version of the array, validating the accuracy of the numerical model. In addition, this tool can be used to optimize such physical parameters as element dimensions, spacing, height above the ground plane and various lattice configurations.<
>