The Generalized Intersection Approach for Electromagnetic Array Antenna Beam-Shaping Synthesis: A Review

This work presents a review of the generalized intersection approach (GIA) for electromagnetic array antenna beam-shaping synthesis. After briefly describing the mechanics of the classical IA, we show the extensions to the IA that make the GIA a more powerful algorithm. In short, these improvements consist in working with the squared field magnitude to improve the convergence properties of the algorithm, and the use of a general minimization algorithm in the backward projection that allows to extend the scope of the optimizing variables beyond those directly related to the field at the aperture. Three optimization examples using the GIA are presented to showcase its capabilities for near and far field synthesis with a variety of arrays: transmitarray, aperiodic phased-array and reflectarray. Finally, we carry out a literature review of the IA, including its origin, different flavours, development, extensions and current and future use for antenna synthesis.