A simple algorithm to achieve equiripple patterns for arbitrary arrays

The authors consider the problem of designing equiripple patterns (uniform sidelobes) for antenna arrays with arbitrary geometry. A simple algorithm is derived which starts with an initial pattern and iteratively aligns the sidelobe peaks to some prespecified level. The initial pattern is selected as having a peak of unity gain at the look direction while simultaneously possessing minimum power in other directions where the sidelobes are of concern. Such a pattern can be obtained straightforwardly by solving a linearly constrained minimization problem with unity gain and zero first derivative constraints. The remaining task is to update the array weights from one iteration to the next until an equiripple pattern is reached. The algorithm has been applied to achieve equiripple patterns for a variety of arrays.<>