Optimised shaped parasitic array using the genetic algorithm

The performance of a shaped, three-element parasitic antenna is improved by the use of a genetic algorithm (GA) in conjunction with the method of moments (MoM). The GA enabled the shaping and spacing of the elements to be changed at will as the optimum gain and front-to-back ratio (FIB) were sought. Appropriate interfacing to the NEC code made rapid testing possible, and the combination thus yields a powerful antenna-synthesis tool. The results show that a simple, 3λ/2, V-shape, parasitic array can achieve markedly increased gain over its straight, parallel-element counterpart but without the need for the elaborate element curvature, as reported elsewhere