Counterintuitive Constrained Optimization Strategy for Phased-Array Radar Areal Coverage

The optimization of phased-array RADAR areal coverage on the plane, in 2D, is considered for a semi-infinite strip where the agent carrying the RADAR travels at uniform velocity along the centerline of the strip. Because the system is symmetric we naturally are led to expect an optimal solution, with maximal areal coverage, which is symmetric and well ordered. However, in general, we find the optimal solution to be asymmetric and random in nature, defying intuition. An algorithm was developed for getting at these solutions and these optimal solutions are found to be far superior to ordered arrangements and random constructions. The conclusions are valid for other sensors modeled with 3D conical detection projected onto the plane.