The principle of the phased array is to use multiple antenna elements, each with its own phase phase, to create a combined radiation pattern. By adjusting the phase shift of each element, the overall radiation pattern of the array can be controlled. This allows the array to electronically steer its beam without physically moving the entire antenna structure. Phase differences between elements determine the direction in which the beam is aimed, enabling rapid beam scanning, target tracking and adaptation to changing operational requirements. Phased arrays are used in radar, communications and other applications where directional control of electromagnetic waves is essential.
Phased array technique refers to the method of using progressive arrays to achieve specific goals, such as beam direction, beamforming, or beam shaping. This technique involves coordinating the phases of signals across multiple antenna elements to produce desired radiation patterns. By adjusting the timing and amplitude of signals at each element, the phase array technique allows precise control over the directionality and characteristics of transmitted or received waves. This capability is crucial in applications requiring rapid and precise manipulation of electromagnetic beams, such as radar systems, satellite communications and medical imaging.
The optical phased array operates on similar principles to its electromagnetic counterpart but in the field of optics. Instead of radio waves, optical phased arrays manipulated light waves using an array of subwavelength-sized optical antennas or waveguides. These elements can individually control the phase and amplitude of the light waves passing through them. By adjusting these parameters across the array, phased optical arrays can direct, shape and modulate light beams electronically. This technology finds applications in optical communications, beam steering for lidar (light detection and ranging), holography and optical imaging systems where precise control over the direction and intensity of light are necessary.
Phased arrays work by coordinating the signal phases of multiple antenna elements to steer and control the direction of a beam. Each antenna element in the array can transmit or receive signals independently, and by adjusting the phase shift of each element, the combined signal in the array can be directed to a specific angle or multiple angles simultaneously. This electron beam steering capability allows phased arrays to quickly scan a large area, track multiple targets, and adapt to changing conditions without physically repositioning the antenna structure. Phased arrays are versatile and are used in radar systems, satellite communications, wireless networks and other applications where precise control and flexibility in beam direction are essential.