Genetic-Algorithm Optimization of an Array for Near-Field Plane Wave Generation

Abstract

An alternative approach to the design of an array antenna to be used to generate plane waves in the near field is presented. The original array was designed on the basis of a triangular grid of seven elements arranged in a hexagon, to minimize the number needed to achieve approximately uniform illumination of the test zone, under the assumption of isotropic element radiation patterns. In the alternative approach, a genetic algorithm was used to discover more economical distributions of elements which could still generate acceptable approximations to a plane wave zone. It was found that considerable simplifications from the 'common sense' approach were possible.