Predicting Antenna Sidelobe Performance

Abstract

Given a set of antenna array performance requirements, the dimensions and illumination taper of an ideal array may be determined. However, random errors in actual manufacturing lead to uncertainty as to actual array performance. It is shown here that the performance is nonetheless predictable with a probability function that rests on the contractor's decisions in the fabrication of the array. The derivation of curves that relate this probability function to a range of conditions, overdesign allowances and production tolerances, is the salient feature of this paper. When sidelobe specifications allow for occasional statistical pop-ups, the specified levels may be better adapted to requirements. The contractor, in turn, could decide on the proper choice between overdesign and tolerances, in a measured response to the specified performance. Keywords include: Antenna Sidelobe, Array Tolerances, Phased Arrays, planar Arrays, and Tolerances/Overdesign.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Aug 01, 1986
Accession Number
ADA172708

Entities

People

  • Philip D. Kaplan

Organizations

  • MITRE Corporation

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Energy and Power Technologies
  • Materials and Manufacturing Processes

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Antennas
  • Arrays
  • Computational Processes
  • Contractors
  • Contracts
  • Detection
  • Fabrication
  • Mathematical Analysis
  • Modulation
  • New York
  • Probability
  • Production
  • Radar
  • Random Variables
  • Sidelobes
  • Specifications

Fields of Study

  • Engineering

Readers

  • Phased Array Antenna Design.
  • Systems Analysis and Design