Non-uniform feeding networks for limited-scan phased array systems

A new phased array feeding network which groups individual phased-array elements into random sequences of non-uniform sub-arrays and employs a single phased shifter for each sub-array group is proposed. The proposed configuration results in low sidelobe levels over a limited scan region. When compared to the conventional uniform sub-array feeding, the proposed configuration can reduce the number of phase shifters up to 40% while preserving the scan performance. The target application areas are commercial markets such as automotive radars and landing systems where low cost phased arrays with limited scan regions are in demand.