Phase-Only Control of Peak Sidelobe Level and Pattern Nulls Using Iterative Phase Perturbations

Minimization of the maximum sidelobe level for a given array geometry, amplitude distribution, and nulling sectors by phase-only adjustment of the element coefficients is studied. Nonlinear optimization problem for phase distribution is solved using a novel iterative convex optimization algorithm, which includes mutual coupling effects and exploits small phase perturbations at each step. Superiority of the algorithm in terms of the peak sidelobe level and nulling depth achieved over several optimization methods reported in the most relevant literature is demonstrated in several case studies. Finally, a case study is performed to demonstrate added value of the algorithm for millimeter-wave fifth generation application with phase-only radiation pattern forming.