On the Design of Arrays

The usual method of array design, which employs pattern multiplication, is an approximation which is often adequate but which never predicts exactly the pattern of any practical array. An exact method is discussed. It is compared with the approximate method by applying both methods to a practical array of travelingwave slot antennas. The results show that while pattern multiplication is useful for obtaining a first approximation, the exact method must be employed for arrays which are to be designed for low side lobes.