Frequency and focal region properties of random sparse arrays

The concept of a random array relay, in terms of a sparse array, is introduced. The basic idea is to replace the relatively compact radiating structures encountered in conventional communication systems with widely and randomly dispersed radiating systems. The frequency and focal region properties of such random sparse arrays are treated. A methodology for obtaining the expected frequency response, focal region contours and depth of field for any random sparse array is given. The technique is exemplified with results for spherical and spherical-shell arrays. In addition, computer simulation results for sample functions of frequency responses and focal region contours are presented, both to verify the theoretical results and to illustrate some of the salient properties of random sparse arrays.