The evolution of the line integral analysis method for segmented reflectors of flat plates

For earth terminal reflector antenna use, the sidelobe pattern including grating lobes must comply with the standards set by the International Radio Consultative Committee (CCIR). To accomplish this, the use of irregular flats and/or an odd number of sectors can be used to reduce the periodicity across the reflector to smear the grating lobes. For that purpose, the author wanted to replace the usual surface integral physical optics method with a line integral method, as this would simplify the determination of integration limits for each flat.