Particle swarm, genetic algorithm, and their hybrids: optimization of a profiled corrugated horn antenna

Genetic algorithms (GA) have proven to be a useful method of optimization for difficult and discontinuous multidimensional engineering problems. A new method of optimization, particle swarm optimization (PSO), is able to accomplish the same goal as GA optimization in a new and faster way. The purpose of this paper is to investigate the foundations and performance of the two algorithms when applied to the design of a profiled corrugated horn antenna. Also investigated is the possibility of hybridizing the two algorithms.