SAF analysis of shipboard antenna performance, coupling, and radhaz in complex near-field scattering environments

The paper describes the general near-field scattering and coupling analysis technique known as the spherical angular function (SAF) that has been developed for predicting antenna far-field pattern distortions, near-field antenna coupling, and near-field radiated power density levels for shipboard antennas operating in the presence of multiple near-field obstacles. Shipboard directive antennas typically must operate in close proximity to other antennas and various topside structures including solid masts, "open" masts, platforms, yardarms, equipment, stacks, decks, and deckhouses. Computer codes designated as GMULT13C and GCUPL7C have been developed based on the SAF technique to expedite the analysis and design of shipboard antenna arrangements to achieve maximum electromagnetic effectiveness.