Synthesis of flat-top beampatterns based on simple polynomial transforms of Gaussian excitations

In the design of antenna arrays which require fast and robust flat-top beam synthesis, computationally efficient methods are preferred. This feature is usually met by analytical techniques or simple optimisation procedures. On the other hand, in the flat-top beam synthesis, a common requirement is the ability to control beamwidth or sidelobe level. However, this can result in a high dynamic range ratio (DRR) of array's excitation coefficients. In this paper, a straightforward method for the design of symmetrical flat-top arrays with controllable sidelobe level or DRR is proposed. The method is based on quadratic and cubic transforms of Gaussian excitations. In addition, the method utilises zero coefficients whose positions are used to control the DRR, including the ability to achieve its minimum. Compared to other flat-top arrays with analytically shaped beams, the proposed arrays have lower DRRs for the same sidelobe level.