Optimization of Virtual Array Element Position for Sparse Array Based on Particle Swarm Algorithm

The grating lobes often cause detection performance loss of sparse array and the interpolating virtual array may cause sidelobe level rising. In order to suppress the grating lobes, an optimization method based on particle swarm algorithm is proposed to suppress the grating lobes for sparse array. In the proposed method, the initial virtual array position is determined by least squares estimator, and then the particle swarm optimization algorithm is used to optimize the beam pattern. The grating lobes can be effectively suppressed while the sidelobe level can be controlled. Based on the numeral simulations, the effectiveness of the proposed method is verified.