CONFORMAL ANTENNA ARRAY FOR NON-ROTATING AESA RADAR

Abstract

Conformal arrays can integrate seamlessly with the shape of the platform, which enhances the beam coverage capability, unlike linear arrays. The wrap-around geometry results in radar systems with non-rotating antenna structures in circular, cylindrical and conical shapes capable of covering 360° azimuth without rotation. Their applications may range from airborne early warning radars to shipborne radars for IFF(Identification Friend or Foe) applications and as Secondary Surveillance Radars(SSR). The project aims to design, simulate and experimentally validate a cylindrical conformal array using balun-integrated dipole antennas operating at IFF frequency (1030-1090 MHz). The project involves designing and fabricating a balun-integrated dipole antenna to design 4x1 and 8x1 conformal subarrays. The 4x1 conformal subarray is designed, fabricated and tested to produce a broadside beam. A beamforming feed network is designed and fabricated to test a 4x1 conformal subarray. The study is then extended to the design of an 8x1 conformal subarray and its beamforming network. Beamforming and scanning for elevation coverage have been demonstrated for a vertically placed linear array. The project demonstrates the role of amplitude distribution and phase compensation in beamforming for conformal arrays. The effect of various amplitude distribution techniques is studied to produce the required array performance. The results demonstrate the role of phase compensation in enhancing the array performance of conformal arrays. The cylindrical conformal array using balun-integrated dipole antennas demonstrates superior performance for IFF radar systems. The project includes the critical aspects of designing conformal arrays, which can also be utilized for other applications. Future work can explore advanced materials and miniaturization techniques to further optimize the array for a broader range of military applications.