Yu. B. Korchemkin – Ph.D. (Eng.), Head of Department, JSC «Radiofizika» (Moscow);

Lecturer,

Department of Radiophysics and Engineering Cybernetics,

Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University)

E-mail: y.kor@mail.ru

Yu. V. Krivosheev – Ph.D. (Eng.), Leading Research Scientist, JSC «Radiofizika» (Moscow);

Lecturer,

Department of Radiophysics and Engineering Cybernetics,

Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University); Lecturer,

Department of Complex Engineering System Design,

Moscow Aviation Institute (National Research University)

E-mail: krivosheev-yury@yandex.ru

A. V. Shishlov – Ph.D. (Eng.), Head of Department, JSC «Radiofizika» (Moscow);

Deputy Head of Department of Radiophysics and Engineering Cybernetics, Moscow Institute of Physics and Technology (State University)

E-mail: shishlov54@mail.ru

Dielectric-filled waveguide radiators are used as array elements for wide-angle scanning arrays and arrays with limited field of view. In particular, such elements are used in arrays with ferrite phase shifters. One of the elements proposed in some publications for arrays with wide-angle scanning is a dielectric rod. However, in other publications it is shown that arrays with this element have blind spots. In order to avoid blind spots, these publications recommend using flush elements. Note that this conclusion is valid for arrays with wide-angle scanning. Arrays with limited field of view with dielectric rod elements can be optimized to have no blind spots in scan sector. Blind spots of such arrays occur outside scan sector, which does not hinder array operation.

The goal of this paper is to draw attention to the drawback of dielectric rod radiator for phased arrays. To show this drawback, the radiator is simulated in a Floquet cell and in a finite array. Simulation results showed that wide-angle scanning infinite array has blind spots inside scan sector. A finite array with 127 elements has also a significant drop in gain in the direction of a blind spot and an increase in element reflection coefficient.

An example of a flush array element for wide-angle scanning is given. Similar analysis showed that this element has no blind spots in an infinite array and no drop in gain in a finite array. Also, no increase in reflection coefficient occurs in a finite array.

Thus, it is recommended to avoid protruding dielectric elements, such as a dielectric rod, in wide-angle scanning arrays due to occurrence of blind spots. Other elements, such as flush elements, can be used instead.

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