Implementation of Genetic Algoithm-Configured Planewave Generator

The need exists to generate high fidelity electromagnetic planewave environments over large assets for the purpose of testing avionics systems on full-size aircraft in anechoic chambers. In the Phase I effort, we conducted simulations of a PlanewaveGenerator (PWG) architecture that used a genetic algorithm to determine an excitation vector for a phased array that in turn creates an incident field that is planewave in nature only over local points in space. The simulations showed that the PWG couldproduce planewave-like fields with exceptionally high fidelity over multiple wavelength-sized aperatures. We further demonstrated that the PWG produces high fidelity fields in the presence of distance measurement error and electrical noise. The PWGsystem was shown capable of simulating the arrival of planewaves over a cone exceeding +/-10 degrees, as well as being capable of projecting multiple planewave-like regions. In addition to the simulations, we presented a comprehensive hardware design forthe PWG system. In the proposed Phase II effort, we will develop the software and hardware components of the PWG and demonstrate its operation and capability. The system software will provide an extensive graphical interface that will permit the user toeasily specify the test configuration, compute the phased array excitation vector, simulate the display the resulting radiating field, control the hardware components, and aid in the calibration and operation of the PWG. The hardware will consist of onePWG substation array. It will be capable of operating independently, or together with additional substation arrays, according to the problem specification and setup. The goals are to realize a system that will create planewave simulation over 10 lambda x10 lambda regions with angle of arrival simulation capability of +/- 5 degrees (or greater).