Optimum array weighting for minimum (SLL) using genetic algorithm

The goal of this paper is to optimize the array weighting in order to minimize the sidelobe level (SLL) of the phased array antenna without losing the beam width. The simulated antenna is linear array with 8 and 10 elements. Genetic algorithm has been used for the optimization process. The weights chosen to meet any specific criteria, the criterion is to minimize the sidelobe level with narrow beam width. The sidelobe level and beam width of the optimized weights are compared with those of three famous weights known as Hamming, Kaiser-Bessel, and Gaussian weights. The results show a good enhancement for the optimized weights. The sidelobe level (SLL) reduced by 8.3% and beam width (B.W) narrowed by 10% than results achieved by Hamming weights.