The use of a mathematical model of a phased-array antenna to measure the radiation pattern

It is proposed that additional information on phased arrays (e.g., the array geometry, the type and directivity of individual radiators, and the design of phase shifters and feed circuits) be used when determining the radiation pattern. In many cases, the use of such a priori information makes it possible to replace a real phased array by an approximate model with a limited number of parameters. A mathematical model is examined which is based on the assumption that the excitation amplitude of any of the radiators is independent of the positions of the phase shifters of the rest of the radiators. It is demonstrated experimentally that the model proposed here provides an adequate description for a sufficiently large class of phased arrays.