Directivity and ellipticity study for planar and 3D conformai RF-seeker antennas

Current RF-seekers use a mechanical system to steer the antenna. Instead, 3D conformai antennas coupled to electronically steering demonstrate strong advantages such as a faster steering and a higher coverage. In this paper, the pros and cons of different 2D and 3D array arrangements, the elements orientation and the beamsteering effect are investigated. As part of the specifications, a high azimuthal invariant directivity and a low ellipticity are sought in the direction of the main lobe.