DoA estimation combining uniform circular array and sequential array processing

In this paper, sequential array processing is applied to estimate the Direction-of-Arrival (DoA). To successfully execute the DoA estimation, several signal processing stages have to be implemented. Firstly, the time-conditioned phase offset due to the sequential antenna scanning needs to be compensated. Secondly, a calibration has to be performed if it is not inherent to the DoA estimation algorithm. Additionally, a hardware demonstrator is presented that consists of a single transceiver, a SP8T (single-pole-eightfold-throw) switch and a uniform circular array (UCA) incorporating eight monopole antennas over ground. The demonstrator enables the verification of DoA estimation techniques and operates in the ISM (industrial-scientific-medical) band at 2.4 GHz with the radius of the UCA being equal to 6 cm. The presented measurement results show the feasibility of the sequential array processing concept.