Advanced Antenna Evaluation and Design Software with Radomes and Frequency Selective Surfaces

"This effort is to develop, optimize, and demonstrate a suite of physics formalisms, codes, and novel techniques for designing complex antennas such as multi-function arrays recessed in airframe surfaces and shipboard composite masts that may incorporateradomes and Frequency Selective Surfaces (FSS) with complex materials. A unique and innovative approach is proposed allowing for the concurrent near field analysis of antennas in the presence of radome structures or the coupling of such antennas with othernearby airframe devices and the host platform. Of particular interest is the effect of the radome structures and mutual coupling with other devices on the substructure. The focus is on geometrical and material adaptability, as well as on reducing designtime. Computational speed and the development of a practical toolset will be addressed. The toolset will incorporate constrained tradeoff optimization routines (e.g., Pareto or genetic algorithms) that will automatically drive the process to a desirabledesign. The Optima-FSS concept design includes provisions for an array geometry generator, pre/post-processing capabilities, and a user-friendly GUI. This R&D will result in a revolutionary approach for efficiently designing and analyzing complex antennaarrays as a function of geometry, materials, EM properties, and logistical factors to a level that has not been previously demonstrated. The knowledge gained from this research will be app