Experimental investigation on the synthesis of scanning beam pattern with antenna selection for conformal array

摘要

In this study, the synthesis of scanning beam pattern with antenna selection for practical half-circular conformal array is achieved based on hybrid particle swarm optimisation-gravitational search algorithm (PSOGSA). A half-circular conformal dipole antenna system has been designed, fabricated and tested. The antenna element is dipole, and the digital beam forming net can control both the amplitude and phase in each channel through attenuator and phase shifter. The array confirms to a surface of half-circular metal carrier. To achieve the synthesis of scanning beam pattern with activated antenna selection, hybrid PSOGSA is introduced to optimise the excitation amplitude. To consider the mutual coupling effect, embedded element pattern is measured and utilised. Numerical comparisons and practical experimental results illustrate the advantage and accuracy of the proposed method and manufactured system in the synthesis of scanning beam and activated element selection.