Optimized design of interpolated array and sparse array wideband beamformers

We investigate two different design methods for wideband beamformers with applications to microphone arrays. Our major design goal is to reduce the number of sensors while maintaining a good beamforming performance. The different design methods considered are interpolated arrays with virtual sensors, and optimized sparse arrays. We present new optimization procedures for wideband beamforming with both types of arrays. Typical experimental results include array performance in case of noisy sensors, and in the presence of simulated room reverberations.