Antenna bandwidth optimization using transmission line matrix modeling and genetic algorithms

The optimization of electromagnetic structures demands for a fast and efficient field solver in conjunction with a flexible and stable optimization method. In this work the time-domain based transmission line matrix (TLM) method is combined with the genetic algorithm (GA). The proposed technique is especially advantageous for the optimization of the operating bandwidth of EM structures and yields a reduced total optimization time compared to conventional frequency domain methods. The efficiency and flexibility of the combined TLM-GA optimization method is shown on the example of low profile patch antennas. The optimized antenna structures support multi-band operation over several Gigahertz. The direct connection of the GA algorithm to the TLM structure file enables a fast and efficient implementation of the optimization routine.