Analysis of planar slot arrays using magnetic currents and magnetomotive force

An effective approach to the analysis of planar slot arrays constructed on a metal-coated dielectric slab is suggested. In the framework of the method, radiation and scattering characteristics of such arrays are obtained from treating the problem of guided mode diffraction with a finite number of transverse slots cut in metallization. The idea of magnetic currents and magnetomotive force is used to solve the problem; in doing so, mutual relations between the slots are taken into consideration. Some numerical results in the specific case of a uniform finite-periodic array are given. Moreover, the design problem aimed at reduction of sidelobes using nonuniform quasi-periodic slot arrays is considered. Applying the proposed analysis to the designed array, one can determine the deviation of actual radiation characteristics from the desired ones, thus correcting the design procedure if necessary. >