Aperture efficiency considerations in the convolution synthesis of symmetrical hexagonal arrays

The investigation of the application of null synthesis procedures to planar arrays, described in previous reports by these authors, is continued. The null synthesis of symmetrical hexagonal arrays is evaluated in terms of the maximum achievable aperture illumination efficiency (AIE). Computed values of maximum AIE are presented for hexagonal arrays of 7, 19, 37, 61, and 91 elements using 7-element, 1-parameter canonical arrays (referred to as H(7)). A 19-element 3-parameter canonical array is introduced (H(19)), and maximum AIE is given for arrays of 19, 37, 61, and 91 elements. Contour plots of radiation patterns, showing zero loci and sidelobe levels are presented for both uniformly illuminated and synthesized maximum AIE arrays. Zero loci, sidelobe levels, and aperture illumination distributions are compared for these arrays.