Direction-of-departure estimation using cooperative beamforming

In this paper a novel approach is proposed for estimating the direction-of-departure (DOD) in a frequency-selective multipath channel, where both the transmitter (Tx) and receiver (Rx) employ an antenna array. In particular, the proposed approach exploits the cooperation between the Tx and Rx beamformers, such that the Tx beamformer rotates its mainlobe in a synchronized manner that is known to the Rx. This operation allows the DODs of the multiple paths to be estimated at the Rx by making a set of power measurements. The performance of the proposed approach is investigated using computer simulation studies.