Azimuth DOA estimation using an oval antenna array

A new array design for azimuth direction of arrival (DOA) estimation is proposed in this work, termed as oval array. The structure of the proposed array replicates the oval shape on the x-y plane with the capability of two-dimensional (2D) DOA estimation. The advantage of the proposed array is that it offers less acquired area than the circular array for the same number of elements. Computer simulation is performed to evaluate the performance of the proposed array. DOA estimation results of the proposed array are then compared with circular array based on estimation resolution and error of estimation. Simulation results show that the proposed array improves the resolution of estimation of circular array by 50%. In addition, the proposed array also manages to reduce the estimation error of circular array by 75%. This work concludes that the proposed array offers an alternative design in array geometry with improved accuracy in DOA estimation.

I. Introduction

The research of direction of arrival (DOA) estimation in array processing have been ongoing for the last six decades and have been applied in wireless communication, radar and indoor positioning [1]– [3]. Reliability of the estimation of signal direction relies heavily on the choice of DOA algorithm as well as the structure of the antenna array. There are several parameters of the array geometry that could significantly affect the estimation result such as the number of sensors and position of sensors in an array. Therefore, it is desirable to optimise the configuration of antenna array in order to have accurate DOA estimation.