Alternating MSA and Mo-QEA to Design Slow-Time Coded PRF-Set in Pulse-Doppler Radar

In this paper, we propose a novel framework based on a multivariable hybrid optimization algorithm that integrates single-objective modified simulated annealing (MSA) and multi-objective quantum-inspired evolutionary algorithm (Mo-QEA) layers based on the impact of the slow-time phase coding for minimizing unwanted signals at the output of matching filters, on the frequency spectrum of pulsed-Doppler radars. Slow-time codes alter the spectrum’s structure and result in increasing the blind areas within the blind-zone map (BZM). The hybrid framework comprises two layers that identify the optimum pulse repetition frequency (PRF) set and slow-time code by considering spectrum disturbances. The first layer employs the MSA for PRF set optimization. Modifications to the SA include restructured loops based on the perturbation functions. The outer loop considers the overall PRF set structure (overall direction and step—ODS), while the inner loop conducts a sequential search based on the cost function’s standard deviation and small increments. The output of this layer serves as the foundation in the subsequent layer, where the phase sequence of each PRF is optimized to concurrently minimize blind areas due to the M of N criterion and grating lobes through Mo-QEA. Innovations are mutation-like operators and tournament selection to enhance the diversity of generated solutions alongside rotation gates in quantum computing. Our research highlights a previously unexplored relationship between BZM and slow-time coding, demonstrating improved performance for each layer compared to existing studies.