Array calibration using array response interpolation and parametric modeling

High-performance array applications often require an accurate array response model. A common way to achieve this is by array calibration which involves measuring the response for a finite number of given source directions and employing interpolation. This paper considers the array calibration problem by combing interpolation techniques and parametric modeling. The idea is to model the array response as a product of a mutual coupling matrix, an ideal array response vector (derived from the geometry of antenna array) and an angle-dependent correction vector. Since the major effects are captured by the physical model and the mutual coupling matrix, the correction vector will be a smoother function of angle as compared to direct interpolation of the measured array response. In numerical experiments of a real antenna array, the method is found to improve the performance of the array calibration significantly.