Multilevel Subarray Modularization to Construct Hierarchical Beamforming Networks for Phased Array of Antennas With Low Complexity

Abstract

A multilevel subarray RF modularization technique is presented to construct a hierarchical beamforming network (BFN) for phased array of antennas. In contrast to the conventional BFN architecture, which feeds each antenna element by using individual set of RF devices, the restructured RF modules may simplify the BFN architecture. They may dramatically reduce the cost without significantly sacrificing the radiation performance. In this technique, the RF devices to feed antenna elements are subdivided into groups for modularization. Each module is formed by very few elements of RF devices to form a multilevel BFN, where the number of RF elements in each module are the integer factors of array size. Each module at the same layer consists of identical RF structures to minimize the mass manufacture cost. In this paper, the theoretical foundation is developed to provide design guidelines. Examination of radiation discrepancy is also investigated to demonstrate the feasibility and validate the proposed technique.