Directional properties of circular arrays

Abstract

The paper discusses the possible forms of directional patterns obtainable for single-ring circular arrays. Consideration is given only to the patterns which lie in the same plane as the array. A simple Fourier harmonic-analysis technique is used to show how patterns can be synthetised and the limitations imposed on such patterns by the physical parameters of the array. This technique shows the factors involved in choosing an array diameter and the number of elements in the array. It also shows the effect of the use of the directional elements and amplitude tapers on the directional pattern and how the effects of mutual coupling may be taken into account.