John Wiley & Sons, 2006. — 488 p.
Each chapter starts with some introductory material, that is, the basic concepts that are essential to get an understanding of the more advanced aspects. The first three chapters present an overview of conformal array principles and applications, including the theory for circular arrays and phase mode concepts, and discussions of various shapes of conformal arrays.
In Chapters 4 and 5, theoretical methods for analysis and design are described, including explicit formulas; for example, for geodesics on more general surfaces than the canonical circular cylinder and sphere. Doubly curved surfaces and dielectric covered surfaces using high-frequency methods are also included. Two canonical examples are also discussed in detail, thus assisting the reader in his/her own conformal antenna analysis.
Chapters 6 and 7 deal with radiating elements on singly curved and doubly curved surfaces. The focus is on mutual coupling characteristics and element radiation properties. Element types include waveguide-fed apertures and microstrip patches. For both types, measured data supports the calculated results.
Chapters 8 and 9 treat conformal array antenna characteristics—radiation, impedance and polarization—as well as mechanical and packaging aspects. Feeding systems and beam-scanning principles are also included.
Chapter 10 discusses various synthesis methods, with some examples. Also, aspects such as optimizing the shape, distribution of elements, polarization, and bandwidth are included.
The final chapter deals with methods for the analysis of scattering (radar cross section) from conformal array antennas; in particular, waveguide-fed aperture elements with and without a dielectric coating. We include also a discussion on the problem of reducing the radar cross section without decreasing the antenna performance.
While written with engineering applications in mind, this book can also serve as a text for graduate courses in advanced antennas and antenna systems.
Abbreviations and Acronyms.
Circular array theory.
The shapes of conformal antennas.
Methods of analysis.
Geodesics on curved surfaces.
Antennas on singly curved surfaces.
Antennas on doubly curved surfaces.
Conformal array characteristics.
Beam forming.
Scattering from conformal arrays
Subject Index.
About the Authors.