Spiral array architecture, design, synthesis and application

This study introduces a new array architecture, in which antenna elements are arranged in a spiral curve. The spiral array enhances ultra-wideband (UWB) pattern characteristics compared to alternative array geometries of similar elements, without requiring a complex feed network for frequency change compensation. A number of examples are illustrated to demonstrate the array capability in UWB array designs. It is revealed that for the same number of elements and curvature lengths, a spiral array has a wider radiation bandwidth than the corresponding linear and circular arrays. In addition, it is also demonstrated that the spiral architecture discussed here can be best suited for small antenna array applications. The array factor and the bandwidth of the spiral array are calculated theoretically. The simulation results are found to be in good agreement with the theoretical calculations.