Design of a uniform amplitude time modulated linear array with optimized time sequences

Abstract

A novel approach to realize uniform amplitude time modulated linear arrays with both suppressed sidelobes and sidebands is proposed. The approach utilizes the direct optimization of the "switch-on" time sequence of each array element via the simple genetic algorithm (SGA). As compared to previous time modulated linear arrays, the new array has the advantages of having low sidelobe level (SLL), low sideband level (SBL) and uniform excitations simultaneously. Experimental results on an experimental prototype of a 16-element printed dipole linear array with the SGA optimized time sequences verified the approach.