Simultaneous Multibeam Clustered Phased Arrays Analysis Using Mixed and Multiple Antenna Element Factors

Abstract

A novel design strategy for improving the radiative performance of simultaneous multibeam (SMB) phased arrays is addressed. The proposed scheme relies on the adoption of mixed and multiple antenna element factors with a dynamic selection of their radiation patterns whose choice depends on the desired SMB pointing directions. In addition, a Penrose-inspired clustering technique is also employed for reducing the array feed points. Compared with traditional phased arrays based on a single antenna element factor, the novel array architecture allows the scan angle range to be widened by improving the minimum array gain as well as reducing the peak side lobe level (PSLL). The superior radiative performance of the proposed approach with respect to the clustered phased arrays with a single-mode element factor is assessed in SMB scenarios comprising two and three main lobe peaks. The notable SMB radiative improvement has been also confirmed from a statistical point of view by considering up to four and five concurrent main lobes. The remarkable radiative improvements confirm the effectiveness of the proposed solution, which also represents an appealing candidate for its exploitation in multiuser and multibeam communications.