Analysis of a finite array of open-ended waveguides based on a multimode equivalent network including the effects of finite matching layers and groundplane

In this contribution we present a high-frequency model to describe the reflections of surface waves at the edges of a truncated and grounded dielectric stratification. This model can eventually be integrated with an existing model that is able to analyse realistic finite open-ended planar waveguide arrays. This latter model has proven to be an accurate, efficient and flexible CAD tool [1]. Although the effects of surface waves are taken into account in that model, it cannot account for their reflections due to truncated dielectrics. Matching superstructures on top of arrays best prevent the support of surface waves, however, to get to an optimum design, a tool is necessary to validate and understand the impact of these surface wave reflections on the element input impedance. This contribution presents a first step to the extension of the software package in order to allow the analysis of finite arrays considering not only a truncated ground plane for the exterior region, but, in addition, also including a finite superstructure. First results for aperture antennas with finite superstructures will be shown.