Beamforming in the Presence of Mutual Coupling Based on Constrained Particle Swarm Optimization

Two approaches towards beamforming based on constrained particle swarm optimization (PSO) are presented. One approach relies on the penalty function method, for which a new mathematical expression to select the penalty factors is derived. The other method uses a new PSO strategy for solving constrained optimization problems. To maximize performance of the beamforming procedure, the optimal system parameters for the PSO algorithm are derived. Mutual coupling and platform effects are fully accounted for by using the measured active element radiation patterns. The new PSO strategy is compared with a standard genetic algorithm. Using the measured radiation patterns of a seven-element antenna array, a real-life example is presented that demonstrates the possibilities of the new approach.