A quasi-uniform acoustic leaky-wave antenna: Analysis, design and experimental validation

Abstract

This paper introduces an efficient analytical tool for the design of quasi-uniform acoustic leaky-wave antennas (ALWAs) based on circular holes perforated along the broad wall of a rectangular acoustic waveguide, together with experimental validation in terms of frequency-scanning capability. The analytical formulation combines the Transverse Equivalent Network (TEN) and the Transverse Resonance Equation (TRE) to predict leaky-mode dispersion parameters, including the phase constant and leakage rate. Compared to previously reported metamaterial-based ALWAs, which rely on complex resonant unit cells and exhibit limited scanning performance, the proposed structure provides a simpler alternative while maintaining effective beam-steering capability. The proposed approach bridges the gap between theoretical modeling and practical implementation, establishing a robust framework for the design and optimization of compact and cost-effective ALWAs suitable for acoustic sensing, communication, and localization applications.