A study on the design and behavior of smart antenna

In this paper, a methodology to control the surface error on a Doppler antenna using the concept of a variable geometry truss structure is proposed. A genetic algorithm is used to find the optimal location and number of actuators with the objective to minimize the construction and runtime costs. The optimization also takes into account the limitations in actuation. A piezoceramic-based actuator is used to demonstrate the effectiveness of the methodology. A simple illustration of 2D trusses, which could form a part of a Doppler antenna structure, is used to show the efficacy of the method. An analysis of the effectiveness of such a design is presented. The influence of the variables in the problem is examined and observations made. This study concludes that the smart antenna concept is a viable, feasible and effective option in design.