Array Factor Optimization of an Active Planar Phased Array Using Evolutionary Algorithm

Abstract

Evolutionary algorithms (EAs) have the potential to handle complex, multi-dimensional optimization problems in the field of phased array. Out of different EAs, particle swarm optimization (PSO) is a popular choice. In a phased array, antenna element failure is a common phenomenon and this leads to degradation of the array factor (AF) pattern, primarily in terms of increased side lobe levels (SLLs), displacement of nulls and reduction in the null depths. The recovery of a degraded pattern using a cost and time-effective approach is on demand. In this context, an attempt made to obtain an optimized AF pattern after fault in a 49 elements quasi-circular aperture equilateral triangular grid active planar phased array using PSO. In the paper, multiple cases on recovery are discussed having a maximum 20% element failure. Each recovery is also further evaluated by different statistical analyses. A dedicated software tool was developed to carry out the work presented in this paper. KEYWORDS Active planar phased array, array factor (AF), particle swarm optimization (PSO), radar, transmit receive module (TRM)