Analysis of a grating array in the impedance approximation

A planar array based on the parallel-plate metal-dielectric waveguide with the lowest surface E-wave as an operational mode is considered. The antenna beamforming is carried out with surface wave diffraction by discontinuities, i.e. by the dielectric layer homogeneity changes. Both metallic and non-metallic elements can be used as such discontinuities. The mathematical model of a grating antenna array uses the impedance boundary conditions. It takes into account the finite dimensions of a dielectric base with a shield, the losses in metal and dielectric, and gives a possibility for employment of an effective numerical algorithm. All these advantages are essential from the viewpoint of using the antenna array at millimeter wavelength.