Codesign of Switching Sequence and Diode Parameters for Multiple Pattern Optimization in Time-Modulated Arrays

An innovative method for the design of time-modulated arrays (TMAs) is presented in this letter. The time-domain switching sequence and the parameters of the radio-frequency diodes implementing the time modulation are simultaneously synthesized in order to optimize the features of multiple harmonic beam patterns generated by the TMA. In the proposed codesign strategy, the analysis of the dynamic linear and nonlinear phenomena occurring during a time-based radiation is accurately carried out, including the mutual coupling effects between the radiating elements. A set of representative examples, drawn from an exhaustive numerical validation, is reported and discussed to assess the advantages and the effectiveness of the proposed codesign strategy.