Abstract: Aiming at this problem that reasonable mechanics simulation has been developed as an essential approach in the design of structure of active phased array antenna to meet the requirements of environmental adaptability, accuracy and performance, the processes of structural simulation, finite element model correction, and structural optimization for the antenna were respectively reviewed. The structure characteristics of shipborne, airborne, vehicleborne, spaceborne, and missileborne antennas were all discussed. It was pointed out that the future focuses lie in the mechanical analyses and structurally integrated design of the antenna under strong impact, vibration fatigue and dynamic loading. Two engineering examples were presented in order to introduce the application effects of finite element model correction and size optimization in the engineering design of the active phased array antenna. The results indicate that the finite element model correction can improve the accuracy of mechanics simulation of the phased array antenna significantly, and the size optimization can help to achieve lighter antenna structure with equal mechanical performance.
Key words: active phased array antenna; structural simulation；model correction; structural optimization