Mutual coupling compensation in small antenna arrays by the differential evolution algorithm

A novel method is introduced for the compensation of mutual coupling effect in small or medium-sized antenna arrays, based on the combination of complex embedded element patterns and the differential evolution (DE) algorithm. The complex embedded element patterns can be obtained either by measurement or by full wave simulation of the array. The compensated complex excitations are obtained via a global optimization procedure using DE algorithm. Numerical simulation results for the design of a 16-element printed dipole linear array with low sidelobe sum patterns are presented to demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed approach.