Finite element analysis of large wavelength antenna radome problems for leading edge and radar phased arrays

A method for determining the RF performance from antenna radome configurations based on a frequency-domain finite-element method is presented. The application of this analysis on the design of antenna arrays in aircraft leading edges and radar radomes is discussed. The modeled antenna array elements can be driven with arbitrary amplitude and phase weighting for sidelobe tapering and phased steering of the pattern. The understanding of near-field radiation and coupling interactions is an important design aid. Physical phenomena such as resonances are observed in the predicted near-field results.