Multi-slots array spatial radiation patterns might be determined by several methods, described in literature 23, such as: Taylor, Dolph-Tschebyshev or Fourier Integral Methods. The design of the slotted waveguide array antenna is a fairly complicated task. It requires including an influ-ence of the internal (by a supplying slots waveguide). This paper discusses the design, analysis, and development of waveguide-fed planar slot arrays to achieve low-average-sidelobe specifications, as may arise in radiometer applications. Such antennas may be required to meet strict average sidelobe levels in different angular regions, and low average return loss over a specified bandwidth. In addition to Elliott's design technique, we used a.
Slotted antennas, a complement to dipole antennas, have slots a λ/2 long and a fraction of a wavelength wide. The antenna propagates based on Babinet’s principle of a resonant radiator. The key difference between a dipole and a slotted antenna is the field components are interchanged in orientation. Because of the vertical electric field in horizontal orientation, slot arrays can fit on the surface of moving objects without introducing much aerodynamic drag and wind load. For the same size, slotted waveguide array antennas are more efficient than any other planar antenna. Versatility in slot feeding options, ease of weather-proofing and mechanical stability make slotted antennas well-suited for military and defense applications.
For radar and communication systems, Eravant, formerly SAGE Millimeter, has developed the SAW-3533532716-28-L2-WR, a slotted waveguide array antenna operating at 35 GHz with 500 MHz bandwidth. The bandwidth can be increased by increasing the slot width, with cross-polarization increasing as a trade-off. The SAW-3533532716-28-L2-WR slot array supports linear, vertically polarized signals with high aperture efficiency and low VSWR. The antenna has 27 dBi gain with a half-power beamwidth of 16 degrees in the E-plane and 2 degrees in the H-plane. A radome of LEXAN polycarbonate makes the antenna suitable for outdoor applications. Its 1 lb. weight and small size - measuring 11.84 in. x 3.85 in. and just 0.93 in. thick - eases mounting and minimizes the dynamic load to the overall structure. A groove for an O-ring in the standard WR28 waveguide flange (UG-599/U) pressure seals the connecting interface. Integrating the antenna with a T/R diplexer, a dual channel I/Q receiver and an oscillator makes a complete package for many system applications, such as traffic management, law enforcement, communications and military surveillance.
Slotted Waveguide Array Antennas
The slot array antennas offered by Eravant span WR90 to WR10 and are designed with MIL-F-3922 designated standard flanges as the microwave connector interface.
Waveguide Slot Array Antenna
Eravant, formerly
SAGE Millimeter
Torrance, Calif.
www.eravant.com