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In antenna theory, a phased array usually means an electronically scanned array, a computer-controlled array of antennas which creates a beam of radio waves that can be electronically steered to point in different directions without moving the antennas.
Phased arrays are collections of antennas, microphones, or acoustic transducers arranged in a pattern. Arrays convert signals into radiated energy for transmission to a target. Arrays also convert incoming energy from a source or reflecting object into signals.
This example shows how to model and visualize a variety of antenna array geometries with Phased Array System Toolbox™. These geometries can also be used to model other kinds of arrays, such hydrophone arrays and microphone arrays. You can view code for each plot, and use it in your own project.
First, let’s look at an intuitive example of steering a phased array beam. Figure 1 provides a simple illustration of a wavefront striking four antenna elements from two different directions. A time delay is applied in the receive path after each antenna element, and then all four signals are summed together.
The phased array antenna (PAA) performs beam steering through algorithms manipulating the independent phase and amplitude fed into each antenna element. Controlling the phase between elements steers the beam in a specific direction while controlling the amplitude shapes the beam pattern and reduces sidelobe levels.
Model and analyze the behavior of active or passive electronically scanned arrays (AESA or PESA), including the array geometry, subarrays, custom antenna elements, polarization, and perturbed elements.
Gain an understanding of phased array and beamforming concepts. Learn how simulation models can be used to predict array and beam behavior for system design and test. Validate simulation models using prototype hardware. Learn about practical applications for phased array systems.
