Direction of Arrival Estimation Based on Received Signal Strength Using Two-Row Electronically Steerable Parasitic...

Area of Science:

• Electromagnetics and Antenna Theory
• Signal Processing
• Wireless Communications

Background:

• Direction-of-arrival (DoA) estimation is crucial for wireless systems.
• Existing methods often require complex antenna arrays or prior signal knowledge.
• Received Signal Strength (RSS) offers a simpler alternative if effectively utilized.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel DoA estimation technique using a two-row Electronically Steerable Parasitic Array Radiator (ESPAR) antenna.
• To leverage Received Signal Strength (RSS) measurements exclusively for DoA determination.
• To validate the proposed method's accuracy across various signal conditions and angles.

Main Methods:

• Utilized a 12-element two-row ESPAR antenna with elevation and azimuth beam switching capabilities.
• Investigated 18 unique 3D antenna radiation patterns measured in an anechoic chamber.
• Generalized the Power-Pattern Cross-Correlation (PPCC) algorithm with Multiple Calibration Planes (MCP) and specific pattern combinations.
• Developed a new RSS-based accuracy assessment method testing various elevation angles (θ).

Main Results:

• The proposed method accurately estimates DoA in the horizontal plane using only 12 radiation patterns.
• Effective performance was demonstrated even at low Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR) levels.
• The system does not require prior knowledge of the signal's elevation direction.

Conclusions:

• The two-row ESPAR antenna, combined with the generalized PPCC algorithm and RSS, provides an effective DoA estimation solution.
• This approach offers accurate horizontal plane DoA estimation without needing elevation angle information.
• The method is robust and performs well under low SNR conditions, enhancing wireless system capabilities.