Fast Optimization of Large Antenna Arrays on Dielectric Layers using Surrogate Macro-Basis-Function Representations

A fast full-wave simulation for the synthesis of printed antenna arrays is presented. The technique relies on a fast simulation scheme, exploiting the Macro Basis Functions (MBF) technique, to quickly analyze arrays. Mutual coupling (MC) is taken into account by exploiting the embedded element patterns in the synthesis process. The technique is hybridized with an iterative convex optimization to effectively optimize antenna excitation and locations in a double-step optimization routine. The synthesized arrays will therefore fulfill all requirements.The performance of the method is validated for arrays of printed bowtie antennas