Far Field Pattern Analysis Approach for Reflectarrays Based on Element-in-Array Model

The periodic model is generally used for analyzing the far field of reflectarrays. However, such model differs from the realistic array configuration that the reflectarray is composed of different size elements. Considering the faults of conventional method, this paper brings forward a new far field pattern analysis approach by the name of ‘element-in-array model’. Based on the superposition principle and the equivalence principle, element-in-array pattern can be calculated from the equivalent surface electric/magnetic currents by electric field integral equation. Numerical results validate its accuracy and effectiveness. The new approach provides a feasible solution for analyzing large-scale planar/conformal array antennas.