Near-Field Antenna Pattern Optimization with Thinned Array Based on Genetic Algorithm

Thinned arrays have advantages of achieving low side lobe with fewer array elements than the full array. The far-field plane wave assumption commonly used in arrays is no longer valid in the situation of radar imaging. With considering the near-field spherical wave effect, this paper utilizes the genetic algorithm to thin the arrays. Radar images of objects are then obtained with the thinned array. Firstly, the pattern formation of antenna array in the near field is discussed. Secondly, we use the genetic algorithm to optimize the selected elements from a full array to achieve a thinned array under the circumstance of the near field. Lastly, radar imaging with the thinned array is compared with the situation of full array. Simulation and RADBASE data processing showed that our proposal has good performance.