Simplified horn antenna parameter estimation using selective criteria
Abstract
An approximation can be used to avoid the complex mathematics and computation methods typically required for calculating the gain and radiation pattern of electromagnetic horn antenna. Because of the curvature of the antenna wave front, calculations using conventional techniques involve solving the Fresnel integrals and using computer-aided numerical integration. With this model, linear approximations give a reasonable estimate of the gain and radiation pattern using simple trigonometric functions, thereby allowing a hand calculator to replace the computer. Applying selected criteria, the case of the E-plane horn antenna was used to evaluate this technique. Results showed that the gain approximation holds for an antenna flare angle of less than 10 degrees for typical antenna dimensions, and the E field radiation pattern approximation holds until the antenna's phase error approaches 60 degrees, both within typical design parameters. This technique is a useful engineering tool.
- Publication:
-
NASA STI/Recon Technical Report N
- Pub Date:
- March 1991
- Bibcode:
- 1991STIN...9118344E
- Keywords:
-
- Antenna Design;
- Antenna Radiation Patterns;
- Design Analysis;
- Fresnel Integrals;
- Horn Antennas;
- Power Gain;
- Trigonometric Functions;
- Approximation;
- Computer Techniques;
- Phase Error;
- Communications and Radar