Genetic Algorithm Design And Testing of a Random Element 3-D 2.4 Ghz Phased Array Transmit Antenna Constructed of Commercial Rf Microchips

摘要

The United States Navy requires radical and innovative ways to nodal and design multifunction phased array radars. This thesis puts forth the concept that Genetic Algorithms, computer simulations that mirror the natural selection process to develop creative solutions to complex problems, would be extremely well suited in this application. The capability of a Genetic Algorithm to predict adequately the behavior of an array antenna with randomly located elements was verified with expected results through the design, construction, development and evaluation of a test-bed array. The test-bed array was constructed of commercially available components, including a unique and innovative application of a quadrature modulator microchip used in commercial communications applications. Corroboration of predicted bean patterns from both Genetic Algorithm and Method of Moments calculations was achieved in anechoic chaster measurements conducted with the test-bed array. Both H-plane and E-plane data runs were made with several phase steered beans. In all cases the measured data agreed with that predicted from both modeling programs. Although tine limited experiments to bean forming and steering with phase shifting, the test- bed array is fully capable of bean forming and steering though both phase shifting and aptitude tapering.