Modeling large finite antenna arrays with non-conformal, non-overlapping finite-element domain-decomposition methods

A non-conformal, non-overlapping domain-decomposition method is described and applied to model large finite antenna arrays. Only the first-order Robin transmission condition is employed, since it is adequate for most antenna-array radiation problems. Moreover, a finite-element tearing and interconnecting (FETI) algorithm is also discussed in detail for treating the large number of repetitions within the arrays. Furthermore, through measurements and the full-wave Finite-Element Method, we validate the accuracy of the proposed non-conformal, non-overlapping domain-decomposition method. Finally, with the aid of the domain-decomposition method, we are able to rigorously compare the performance of antenna arrays on flat and curved platforms.