Optimization Method for Pattern Synthesis of Sparse Planar Arrays Considering Mutual Coupling and Nonoverlapping Constraint

This article presents an optimization method for pattern synthesis of sparse planar arrays considering mutual coupling and nonoverlapping constraint. The design optimization is carried out through simultaneously optimizing the rotation and position parameters of each array element within a given array aperture. To prevent the overlaps among multiple coupled array elements, a single level-set-based constraint is constructed, which can deal with the difficulty of large numbers of nonoverlapping constraints. In order to guarantee the design precision, the full-wave method of moments (MoM) simulation is well integrated in the optimization method for rigorously considering the mutual coupling among the coupled array elements. The design sensitivity of the optimization problem is analytically derived and the pattern synthesis is actualized by using gradient-based algorithm. Several examples are provided to demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed method.