Beam forming networks for triangular grid multibeam array

The use of a triangular grid gives a better relation between element density and inter-element distance, reducing the possibility of grating lobes for large pointing angles in the array. The paper presents the design of three elements multibeam antenna arrays using triangular array grid. The multibeam array works as a subarray system in a dome phased antenna array system. Meanwhile, elements are fed by a 6×3 beam forming network to obtain six beams. The networks are based on the butler matrix networks and are arranged with row and column boards which are the linear multiple beam forming networks. Finally, simulated and measured results of a beamforming network demonstrate the validity of the design. The reasonable agreement is obtained between the simulated and measured results.