Title: Efficient Phase-Only Pattern Optimization for Phased Array Apertures
Speaker: Dr. Brendan Wilson, Star Dynamics
Date: May 7, 2026
Time: 11:00 am – 12 pm US Eastern Time
Active electronically scanned arrays (AESAs) typically contain amplifiers and phase shifters, or exploit hybrid architectures by introducing true-time delay (TTD) components, to allow for customizable radiation pattern characteristics. Phase only adjustments allow for pattern manipulation without sacrificing radiated power from amplitude tapering. Unlike amplitude tapering however, phase-only tapering does not have a closed-form analytical expression that readily describes how phases should be computed and applied to produce a desired radiation pattern. In this manuscript, a minimum-maximum optimization algorithm that exploits packages and libraries available in Python is presented which produces phase-only element weights for arrays of arbitrary linear or planar dimensionality. Additionally, a novel phase symmetry arrangement is presented that provides two distinct advantages to other cost function definitions, including (1) synthesis of symmetric patterns, and (2) increased computational efficiency by limiting degrees of freedom. Furthermore, phase shifter or TTD quantization effects are considered in the algorithm implementation and applied to beam pattern synthesis. Using these optimization techniques, simulated data shows minor decreases in boresight directivity (the order of a few dBs), sidelobe suppression relative to the mainlobe, and higher Effective Isotropic Radiated Power (EIRP) compared to amplitude weighting is easily achievable. Finally, experimental data is presented that compares simulated and measured radiation patterns.
Dr. Brendan Wilson is currently a Research Scientist at STAR Dynamics where he gets to explore research fields from multi-object tracking and radar cross section (RCS) methodology and algorithm development to design and integration of phased array apertures into new product lines. Brendan holds undergraduate degrees in Chemistry and Mathematics from West Virginia University and a Ph.D. in Physical Chemistry from The Ohio State University. Brendan integrates his unique educationally background naturally into the world of radar metrology at STAR. Brendan has more than 10 years of experience with pulsed RF measurement techniques and has presented novel, cutting-edge work on phased array apertures at multiple venues and conferences during his tenure at STAR. Away from the office Brendan enjoys spending time with and travel with his wife and two children.
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