46

INTRODUCTION TO MONOPULSE

amplitude patterns (Fig. 3.26) whose ratio indicates angle of

arrival. The two received signals can be used directly for mul-

tiplicative amplitude sensing, or by forming their sum and differ-

ence for additive amplitude sensing. Amplitude sensing by

off-focus feeds has the distinct advantage of simplicity but is

never quite pure because of the fact that the phase centers can

never quite be brought into coincidence.

Examples of this type of sensor are shown

in Figs. 1.8 and 1.9.

For each reflector-type of monopulse

antenna there corresponds an analogous

lens-type. The lens is somewhat more

versatile than the reflector in that its aper-

ture distribution, and hence its pattern, is

usually capable of finer control. The

phase distribution may be controlled by

varying the index of refraction as well as

the shape of the lens, and fine control of

Fig. 3.3 Squint angle

produced by specular re-

flection in a parabolic

reflector.

the amplitude distribution may be obtained by introducing

attenuation into the refracting medium across the lens. A phase-

sensing interferometer may be constructed of a pair of lenses with

displaced feeds located at their respective focal points, and ampli-

tude-sensing squinted beams may be generated by a single lens

with off-focus feeds (Fig. 3.4). Although the lens- and reflector-

type antennas are similar in effect, there are significant practical

P(u)e

(a) (6)

Fig. 3.4 Monopulse lens-type antennas for (a) phase and (6) amplitude

sensing.

differences between them. Usually the aperture of a reflector is

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partially blocked by the feed, while the aperture of a lens is

not. With the feed and waveguide out of the primary field

there is no distortion of the aperture distribution and no limi-

tations on the structural support of the feed. On the other

hand, the reflector-type antenna may be fitted into a smaller

volume, is lighter, and is usually easier to fabricate. Both have

their advantages and disadvantages; in any particular application