3D scan performance of strip element microstrip phased arrays

Abstract

An iterative design procedure taking into account the different scan performance in the E- and H-planes of strip element microstrip phased arrays is presented. The phased array model considered consists of perfectly conducting periodically spaced infinite strips of infinitesimal thickness on top of a grounded dielectric substrate. The strips are excited by ribbon current probes. Applying a linear phase taper simultaneously along the E- and H-planes allows the beam to be scanned in any arbitrary direction. Numerical results show the feasibility of a voltage standing wave ratio of less than two for a maximum scan of 40 degrees in the E-, H-, and D-planes and in a frequency band of +or-9%.<>