A finite double-layer slot array structure for spatial power combining amplifiers

Arrays of active antennas are finding applications in spatial power combining systems and in phased array radar. In a spatial power combiner the power produced by a large number of solid-state amplifier cells is combined in free space to produce potentially large amounts of millimeter-wave power. Phased array radar systems with each element having an active module also combine power spatially, but more importantly enable tight control of radiated beam characteristics. We have previously analyzed a grid amplifier spatial power combiner where amplifier cells are located at the intersections of a conductor grid. The grid forms the input and output coupling antennas. In this paper we address the modeling of as array of stripline coupled slot antennas. The unit cell has an amplifier, typically a MIMIC in the center of the stripline. In addition to the problem size, one characteristic of this system is the tight coupling of the nonlinear device to its electromagnetic environment. This system has high isolation between the input and the output field. One of the challenges is to select and design this type of array to satisfy good transmission between the input and the output. The aim of the work presented is the development of models of the slot array for use in a nonlinear circuit simulator.