Cluster Driven Subarray Setup for Reinforcing Phased Beam Pattern: A Comparative Analysis for Four Array Grids
Randa Yahya Hussein and
Ahmed Jameel Abdulqader
This paper aims to propose efficient scenarios for constructing subarray structures based on innovative cluster configurations for high-performance beamforming. Two efficient methods, spatial assembly clustered subarray (SACS) and radial section clustered subarray (RSCS), are proposed for constructing multiple planar antenna arrays. Several array grid shapes were selected, including the rectangular array (RA), uniformly circular area randomly filling (UCARF), polycycle concentric array (PCA), and circular rectangle lattice array (CRLA). Synthesizing large arrays requires a high-performance algorithm to ensure error-free tuning. Therefore, the optimization process was assigned to the convex optimization (CO) algorithm. A set of radiation constraints was incorporated to generate a strong phased beam pattern (PBP) based on the innovative cluster structures, including steering and null steering, and a significant reduction in the sidelobe levels (SLLs). Complex excitation optimization of the subarray elements was used to meet the requirements of electromagnetic radiation. Simulation results show that the four topologies using the RSCS method offer better control than the SACS method in terms of reducing the SLL. The CRLA-RSCS method achieved -82.6 dB, the CRLA-SACS of -60 dB, the UCARF-RSCS of -45 dB, the PCA-RSCS of -39 dB, and the RA-RSCS method of -35 dB, with the other subarrayed array methods achieving -30 dB. Regarding the null steering characteristic, the CRLA-SACS method achieved a better depth, reaching -150 dB, than the other clustered array tiling methods. In all the sternification configurations, the main beam was steered at a 30-degree angle and could be reconfigured as required. Therefore, the design of such antenna arrays makes them suitable for modern and future communication applications.
