Synthesis of planar arrays using a modified particle swarm optimization algorithm by introducing a selection operator and elitism

Abstract

A modified particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm applied to planar array synthesis considering complex weights and directive element patterns is presented in this paper. The modern heuristic classical PSO scheme with asynchronous updates of the swarm and a global topology has been modified by introducing tournament selection, one of the most effective selection strategies performing in genetic algorithms the equivalent role to natural selection, and elitism. The modified PSO proposed combines the abilities of the classical PSO to explore the search space and the pressure exerted by the selection operator to speed up convergence. Regarding the optimization problem, the synthesis of the feeds for rectangular planar arrays consisting of microstrip patches or subarrays of microstrip patches is considered. Results comparing the performance and limitations of classical and modified PSO-based schemes are included considering both test functions and planar array complex synthesis to best meet certain far-field radiation pattern restrictions given in terms of 3D-masks. Finally, representative synthesis results for sector antennas for worldwide interoperability for microwave access (WiMAX) applications are also included and discussed.