Edge element evaluation of tapered-slot elements in phased arrays

The edge elements in large phased arrays of tapered-slot elements are analyzed and compared with the infinite array. In large phased arrays the elements that are close to the center of the antenna have similar performance. However, the elements close to an edge will have different coupling coefficients and embedded radiation patterns due to the truncated geometry. In this paper the edge effects in a triangular grid tapered-slot array is studied by using finite-by-infinite arrays. The array is infinite in the direction along the edge and finite in the other direction. The S-parameters for three truncations of the tapered slot element are compared with the infinite array solution for the case when the edge is orthogonal to the E-plane.