Array Antenna Theory and Synthesis Methods

Name (Acronym)

Array Antenna Theory and Synthesis Methods (AATS)
ECTS

6
Contact E-mail

andrea.massa@unitn.it
Teacher

MASSA Andrea
Institution

DICAM, University of Trento
Study Program

M.S. Ingegneria Civile [LM CIV]
Degree

Master
Language

English
Tracks

Fields and Waves ("Advanced EM Technologies"), Wave Manipulations and Artificial/Smart Materials, Wireless Technology and Network Planning

ABSTRACT

The course introduces the foundations of array antenna theory and practical applications, pointing out their pivotal role in modern wireless communication and sensing systems. Starting from basic concepts, the participants will become aware of the beam-forming principles understanding the relationship between the geometrical (element positions) and electrical (excitation coefficients) parameters of an array antenna architecture with the arising radiation pattern. Through a blend of theoretical lectures and hands-on software exercises, the students will gain proficiency in analyzing and synthesizing various array configurations.

COURSE CONTENT

Part 1: ARRAY ANTENNA ANALYSIS

Introduction to antenna arrays: motivation and principles
Antenna array analysis in the time and frequency domain
The array factor function and its figures of merit
Uniform, uniformly-spaced, and non-uniform array analysis

Part 2: ARRAY ANTENNA SYNTHESIS

Array antenna synthesis problem formulation: external and internal synthesis
Synthesis of conventional/regular array antennas
"Trial & test" synthesis methods: Schelkunoff method, amplitude tapers
Optimal sidelobe-beamwidth compromise synthesis methods: Dolph-Chebyshev, Taylor, and Zolotarev method
Pattern matching synthesis methods: Fourier, Woodward-Lawson, iterative projection method
Synthesis methods for unconventional/irregular array antennas

TEACHING ACTIVITIES

Theoretical Lessons
e-Xam Self Assessment (each teaching class or periodically)
MATLAB Hands-On
e-Xam Final Assessment

ABSTRACT

COURSE CONTENT

Part 1: ARRAY ANTENNA ANALYSIS

Part 2: ARRAY ANTENNA SYNTHESIS

TEACHING ACTIVITIES

FURTHER READINGS