A novel DOA estimation algorithm based on combined arrays of various apertures

Many of Current DOA estimation algorithms have to be exerted on arrays whose inter-antenna distance are less than half wavelength of the arrivals to avoid the ambiguity phenomenon. However, to acquire decent performance in accuracy and resolution, arrays of larger aperture have to be adopted, increases the number of sensors, and enhances the complexity of hardware and cost. To which solve these problems, this paper proposes an algorithm oriented from Multiple Signal Classification (MUSIC), which operates on an array combined of multiple arrays of different apertures. The subarray of smaller aperture helps to eliminate the ambiguity, smooth the spatial spectrum and reduce the calculation complexity, while the larger subarray improves the performance in accuracy and resolution. The principle and steps of the algorithms are presented, and a detailed performance analysis and simulation results are given, which verify the validity of this algorithm.