Two-Dimensional Circular Array Real-Time Phase Interferometer Algorithm and its Correction

A direction finding algorithm of two-dimensional circular array phase interferometer with three antennas is introduced. The expressions of pitch angle and azimuth are given, and they can be extended to two-dimensional circular array phase interferometer with more antennas. We also analyze the factors that caused the error and propose a correction method using known source to solve the problem of phase uncertainty of sensor array. Finally, Matlab is used to prove the feasibility of the direction finding algorithm of three circular antennas array and its correction method. The simulation results show the algorithm is effective and it can meet the requirements of accuracy. When working at the circumstance of single signal source, the methods we proposed is very simple and fast to implement compared to other algorithms, such as the MUSIC and the ESPRIT, though the accuracy is not better than them. And it can be used at realtime signal processing system easily, which is difficult for MUSIC and ESPRIT.