Phase Synchronization Effects in Antenna Arrays with Independent Subarrays Based on Monte Carlo Simulation

The use of electrically independent subarrays in satellite antenna arrays offers advantages of greater flexibility for in-space assembly and manufacturing. However, challenges arise due to phase deviations between non-ideally synchronized subarrays and their impact on important antenna parameters. This study addresses these challenges by employing Monte Carlo simulations to evaluate the effect of phase deviations on key antenna parameters, including array factor (AF), side-lobe level (SLL), half-power beam width (HPBW), and main-beam direction. The effects of varying taper types and subarray sizes on overall performance are also examined. The results show that the amplitude taper applied on an array has no significant influence on the tolerance to phase errors. Furthermore, smaller subarrays exhibit greater resilience to phase deviations compared to larger subarrays, if the overall antenna element number is maintained. These findings provide valuable insights for designing satellite antennas intended to deliver internet connectivity to conventional devices, such as smartphones.