Multifrequency and multidirection optimizations of antenna arrays using heuristic algorithms and the multilevel fast multipole algorithm

We consider fast and efficient optimizations of arrays involving three-dimensional antennas with arbitrary shapes and geometries. Heuristic algorithms, particularly genetic algorithms, are used for optimizations, while the required solutions are carried out accurately and efficiently via the multilevel fast multipole algorithm(MLFMA). The superposition principle is employed to reduce the number of MLFMA solutions to the number of array elements per frequency. The developed mechanism is used to optimize arrays for multifrequency and/or multidirection operations, i.e., to find the most suitable set of antenna excitations for desired radiation characteristics simultaneously at different frequencies and/or directions. The capabilities of the optimization environment are demonstrated on arrays of bowtie and Vivaldi antennas.