A Three-Step Mapping Method for the Synthesis of Sparse Planar Arrays

This article proposes an effective approach for synthesizing sparse planar arrays using the three-step mapping (TSM) method. By decomposing the array optimization process into three independent steps: region partitioning, placement along the x-direction, and placement along the y-direction, this approach effectively addresses the challenge of designing sparse planar arrays under multiple constraints, including array aperture, number of elements, and minimum spacing between adjacent elements, while avoiding infeasible solutions. Compared to the existing matrix mapping methods, the proposed approach removes the limitations on the maximum number of elements arranged in a given row or column and is able to offer greater degrees of freedom (DOFs) in element positioning. Numerical simulations demonstrate the effectiveness and reliability of the proposed method, which outperforms the existing matrix mapping methods.