Impact behavior of composite antenna array that is conformed around cylindrical bodies

In this paper, one structurally integrated array that is conformed around cylindrical bodies has been designed and fabricated for a part of the aircraft outer skin. The effects of the mechanical topology are considered in the antenna design, confirming the optimal integration without compromising either the mechanical or the electrical performance. The measured results show that the radiation pattern is strongly dependent on the radius of curvature. The results of a study of the response and failure characteristics subjected to low-speed impact damage are presented; they indicate that the value of the contact force decreases as the radius of curvature decreases. As the impact energy was increased, the specimens experienced significant damage consisting of a dent localized in the region of impact. These results suggest that the radius of curvature is an important electrical and mechanical parameter in the design of conformal arrays.