Genetic design and optimization of military antennas

Genetic and evolutionary optimization techniques have been used in military antenna research and design at many levels, ranging from electrically-small antenna element design to broadband applications and array-pattern control. In this paper, we summarize in-house work in these areas, conducted at the Antenna Technology Branch of the Air Force Research Laboratory Sensors Directorate. In particular, we highlight areas where differences in modeling and simulation techniques have proven crucial in avoiding premature convergence and obtaining a valid optimal solution.