High-Precision 2D-DOA Estimation Method for Millimeter-Wave Radar Based on Double-Parallel Linear Array and Joint...

Area of Science:

• Radar Systems Engineering
• Signal Processing
• Electromagnetics

Background:

• Millimeter-wave (mmWave) radar demands high-precision two-dimensional direction of arrival (2D-DOA) estimation for accurate target localization.
• Challenges in mmWave radar include limited antenna aperture, signal coherence, and few available snapshots.
• Existing methods often struggle with these specific constraints, necessitating advanced techniques.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose a novel 2D-DOA estimation method for mmWave radar systems.
• To address limitations such as signal coherence and a few snapshots.
• To enhance target detection accuracy in challenging mmWave radar scenarios.

Main Methods:

• A joint iterative adaptive approach and rotational invariance technique (IAA-RIT) is developed, utilizing a double-parallel linear array.
• An iterative adaptive approach spectrum is constructed for initial coupling angle estimation (azimuth and elevation).
• Rotational invariance and spatial smoothing are applied to extended covariance matrices for signal decorrelation and refined angle estimation.

Main Results:

• The IAA-RIT method successfully estimates 2D-DOA for coherent signals even with limited snapshots.
• Experimental results validate the high-precision estimation capabilities of the proposed technique.
• The method achieves accurate 2D-DOA without requiring additional angle matching procedures.

Conclusions:

• The IAA-RIT method offers a robust solution for high-precision 2D-DOA estimation in mmWave radar.
• It effectively overcomes common challenges like signal coherence and limited snapshots.
• This technique significantly improves target localization accuracy in demanding radar applications.