How do I plot the embedded antenna element radiation pattern?

The (active) embedded element pattern, is the pattern of a single antenna element and is used to recreate the finite array’s pattern through Pattern Multiplication

To simulate the embedded antenna element radiation pattern, the user first needs to setup a unit cell analysis using the master/slave boundary and steer the beam using the scan angles defined in the master/slave boundary setting.  A phased array antenna modeled by unit cell represents an infinitely large antenna.

Figure 1. Parametric definition of Scan Angle in Slave boundary setting

The process of obtaining embedded element pattern includes the following steps:

1-Run parametric simulation of Theta_Scan and Phi_Scan to cover your desired scan volume.

2-Define an Infinite Sphere in sync with the Scan Angle. The proper definition of the Infinite Sphere is based on a Relative Coordinate System in which the z axis always points in the direction of Scan Angle. The specific settings for the Relative Coordinate System and Infinite Sphere are shown in Figures 2 and 3.

Figure 2. Definition of rotating Coordinate System (RelativeCS_Scan) aligned with Scan Angle.

Figure 3. Definition of Infinite Sphere based on RelativeCS_Scan. Only one point on the z axis is chosen.

In the Far Field Report dialogue box, make sure to choose the proper Infinite Sphere in Geometry and Theta_Scan (or Phi_Scan) in Primary Sweep.

Figure 4. Important selections in the dialogue box for plotting RealizedGain are shown.

Since mutual coupling can cause mismatch in phased array antenna, realized gain is the proper measure for studying the embedded element pattern. Note: Even though far field is only valid in the direction of Scan Angle, near field data (field within the unit cell) is valid at all locations.