A Novel Approach for Achieving FOMs in Space Constrained Optimized Arrays for AESA Applications

This paper defines an approach applied for implementation of application specific beamforming modalities in finite aperture, space-constrained, optimized arrays. To achieve desired response in array factor, appropriate tapering schemes are selected while focusing on array Figures of Merits (FOMs). In this paper, space-constrained optimized arrays of sizes 1 × 32 (linear) and 8 × 8 (planar) are designed using Opti-metrics in High Frequency Structure Simulator (HFSS). The calculated weights and steering scheme are then applied to HFSS models and Matlab based calculations are validated for proof of concept. Array metrics like low SLL, limited beam-broadening, increased directivity and limited scan loss in planned Field of View (FOV) are targeted metrics. This paper also briefly elaborates comparison of various tapering techniques, while focusing on defined FOMs. The working procedure is developed which extends itself from excitation control of linear to planar dimensions. Keeping in view limited computational resources for full wave simulation, an approach using Pattern Multiplication (PM) is suggested to converge to desired results for large sized arrays. The scheme of this paper has also been used in a design of Hybrid beamforming network (BFN).