Use of “virtual” antenna array methods for reduction of DO A estimation systematic error caused by the scattering of waves on mobile carrier body

Abstract

Abstract Article shows that “virtual” antenna arrays can be used to effectively improve the DOA estimation accuracy of mobile direction finders. “Virtual” antenna arrays are the samples of the spatial field distribution calculated by approximation of the field near a three-dimensional scattering body that supports physical (“real”) antenna system. Signals from the outputs of the “real” array are used as input data for the approximation process. Information on the geometry and material properties of the medium is not required. This procedure can be based on the main provisions of electrodynamics (Kirchhoff-Huygens principle, the Lorenz lemma, method of equivalent currents and fields) or on the use of quasi-static approximation of the field based on the apparatus of the theory of analytic functions of a complex variable (the Cauchy integral and Laurent series). “Virtual” arrays can reduce the error caused by the carrier body without costly and labour-intensive calibration procedures.