Linear array with 60 degree scan angle.
Planar array with 22 dBi gain.
Imported "top of a football" array.
Circular array with 90 degree azimuth scan angle.
Cylindrical array with 54 elements.
Linear array with broadside null.
New Array Synthesis tool:
Design various types of arrays in Antenna Magus
The array synthesis tool in Antenna Magus assists engineers in designing and evaluating arrays of different shapes and sizes with different excitation distributions and various radiating elements. The array synthesis tool supports the import of custom array-layouts and synthesised 3D array patterns can be exported to CST MICROWAVE STUDIO® and FEKO file formats.
The array tool in Antenna Magus was designed after extensive interviews with engineers with lots of array design experience. The insight gained during this process has been distilled into an array tool design that is useful to both experts and novices. One of the key findings about array design, is that it happens in distinct phases - the first three phases of this process are where the Antenna Magus array synthesis tool is indispensable.
Step 1: The first step in array design is to design a topology and excitation taper that will meet the required objectives, using isotropic radiating elements. Antenna Magus will design a topology and excitation taper for 7 different linear arrays, 3 different planar arrays or a circular array with a specified scan angle. For the expert user that has designed their own custom arrays, or to cater for synthesis of an existing layout design, Antenna Magus offers an easy to use data template or import function. Once the topology and excitation taper has been specified, Antenna Magus will calculate and display the array patterns for assuming isotropic elements.
Step 1: Specify array objectives (shape, gain, taper, SLL etc.)
Step 2: The second stage in array development involves considering the effect of the element pattern on the array pattern. At this stage, mutual coupling is still ignored. In Antenna Magus 3 'ideal' patterns as well as typical patterns for 8 different elements commonly used in arrays can be selected to replace the isotropic radiators.
Step 2: Specify array element pattern.
Step 3: Now that the array layout and radiation pattern of the elements in the array have been defined, Antenna Magus synthesises the final array radiation pattern and displays a full 3D pattern as well as pattern-cuts. The 3D patterns and distribution matrix (array layout and excitation information) can be exported in various formats which are supported by FEKO and CST MICROWAVE STUDIO to continue the design of the array.
Step 3: View synthesised array 3d radiation pattern.
Step 4 and after: At this point in the array design process, Antenna Magus has helped the designer get to a basic array layout and investigate the options open to him. Now secondary effects like mutual coupling and feed network design as well as environmental and manufacturing implications can be considered, using traditional methods to complete the design.