Joint Array Design and Pattern Synthesis Optimization for Flexible Conformal Arrays

The smart morphing wing aircraft (SMWA) is a versatile platform with a real-time variable structure, which makes it ideal for intelligent warfare. As a critical component of SMWA, the flexible conformal array (FCA) is responsible for the spatial energy radiation distribution, it can not only ensure that the energy radiated to the target area is maximized but also ensure that the energy radiated to the interference area is minimized. However, achieving the desired pattern in any direction of the airspace with the traditional static array can be challenging because the radiation in the edge direction of the array widens the mainlobe sharply. Therefore, this article proposes a scheme that combines array design and pattern synthesis based on FCA characteristics to obtain a desired radiation distribution. The framework of the algorithm is composed of array control parameter (ACP) optimization and derivative-limited pattern synthesis, while considering factors that may affect the radiation distribution during the actual operation of FCA, such as array mutual coupling and ACP errors. The objective function of ACP optimization is to maximize radiation energy in the desired direction and minimize it in the interference direction. Using the obtained optimal ACP, the adaptive covariance update optimization problem is solved under derivative constraints, and the closed expression of the array weighting vector is obtained. Theoretical and simulation experiments show that the proposed algorithm framework outperforms the traditional array in terms of antenna radiation performance.