Fourier-enhanced DS Method for Optimized Thinning of Linear Antenna Arrays

This paper presents a hybrid method for designing linear antenna arrays (LAAs) with optimized radiation patterns by combining the strengths of the difference set (DS) approach and the discrete Fourier transform (DFT) technique. Addressing the challenge of minimizing peak sidelobe level (PSLL), the proposed method strategically deactivates antenna elements using the DS approach and optimizes excitation amplitude weights through the DFT technique. Simulation results from different case studies demonstrate the efficacy of the proposed Fourier-enhanced DS method, showcasing significant PSLL reduction with minimal computational overhead. Comparative analysis against existing methods highlights the enhanced performance and computational efficiency of the Fourier-enhanced DS method.