Antenna Array Pattern Synthesis Using Nature-Inspired Computational Techniques: A Review

A very significant field of research that keeps getting better at tackling optimization issues is the metaheuristic algorithm. One of the categories of metaheuristic algorithms that has gained popularity among researchers in recent years is nature-inspired computational techniques. Finding the best answers to data-driven challenges is becoming ever more difficult, if not impossible, as data generation explodes. Applications of intelligent, bio-inspired computational techniques are becoming increasingly acknowledged as being necessary for solving highly complex problems promptly, especially when dealing with dynamic problem definitions, fluctuating constraints, incomplete or imperfect information, and constrained computing resources. Thus, more and more intelligent algorithms are being investigated for resolving various challenging issues. While some studies examine how these computational techniques may be applied in different contexts, other investigations attempt to gradually improve the algorithm itself. Wireless communications have a bigger significance in several applications, like Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR), and Fifth generation (5G) communication as a result of the growing demands on technologies. Relatively low side lobe levels, nulls towards the intended direction, including beam shaping approaches like pencil beams and sectoral beams will indeed enhance communication system efficiency while often enhancing the range of RADAR. Many computational methods inspired by natural phenomena are used to increase scan efficiency through the impact of a pencil as well as sector beams about over the target range. Antenna arrays are widely used in 5G standalone architecture, Internet of Things, and beamforming applications of next-generation communications, however, maintaining the subsidiary lobes and directivity is still a challenge. The array parameters could be estimated in real-time using a variety of standard computational techniques, but these methods would struggle to keep its side lobe level low as well as directivity high. As a result, this comparative study intended to examine the various nature-inspired computational techniques for the synthesis of antenna arrays holistically in this work.