Recalculating Linear Array Antennas To Compensate for Failed Elements While Maintaining Fixed Nulls

Abstract

A new technique for the synthesis of linear array antenna patterns is presented. This technique allows to fix nulls in prescribed directions, to simulate the presence of failed elements and to obtain power patterns when both situations occur at the same time. These patterns are synthesized by finding the optimal configuration of the array factor roots using the simulated annealing technique. Examples of fixing nulls and/or failed elements in both sum and flat-topped beam patterns are presented.