Novel Phased-Array Scanning Employing a Single Feed Without Using Individual Phase Shifters [AMTA Corner]

Phased arrays afford many advantages over mechanically steered systems. However, they are also more complex, heavy, and, most of all, costly. The high cost mainly originates from the complex feeding structure. This paper proposes a novel feeding scheme to eliminate phase shifters and achieve scanning using a single control parameter. Beam scanning is achieved via a series-fed array, incorporating feeding transmission lines the wave velocity of which can be mechanically adjusted. Practical designs are shown that achieved scanning up to ±30° from boresight. Finally, a prototype was fabricated and measured, demonstrating the concept.