Application of waveguide simulators to FSS and wideband radome design

Frequency selective surfaces (FSS) have been applied in a number of commercial and defence scenarios, ranging from submillimetre wave diplexers and subreflectors in dual band reflector systems, to advanced low observable radomes and filters for the suppression of electromagnetic interference in communications systems. Periodic structures have also been applied in the design of flat plate polarisers, as well as for narrowband and wideband radome matching applications. Characterisation of such structures is key to ensuring that an optimum performance is achieved, especially in highly tuned designs. This paper considers the well known concept of the waveguide simulator, not only as an experimental tool, but also as a theoretical means of evaluating the characteristics of generalised FSS and novel radome structures, based upon the application of finite element modelling techniques. Some initial feasibility work into the application of the technique is reported, which it is hoped will form the basis for future extension, as the electromagnetic tools and computational resources evolve.