An effective model for the synthesis of simple monopulse array antennas via image elements

Multiple images due to a properly separated CEP plane and a partially reflecting surface are used for the analysis and synthesis of a monopulse array antenna. The interest of such a configuration arises from the very good performances one can achieve by using a reduced number of radiating elements, and the subsequent simplification of the feeding network. Also, the periodical behavior with wavelength of the structure allows to achieve in a simple fashion a dual band radar antenna. In particular, a very simple yet accurate model for the single radiating element is introduced and discussed. It is shown that the proposed model allows to considerably speed up the analysis of a given array. Also, by virtue of its analyticity, it allows to proceed to the synthesis of effective monopulse antennas by avoiding computationally intensive dasiatrial and errorpsila procedures.