Fast DOA Estimation Algorithm Based on a Combination of an Orthogonal Projection and Noise Pseudo-Eigenvector Approach

This paper presents a new fast direction of arrival (DOA) estimation technique, using both the projection spectrum and the eigenspectrum. First, the rough DOA range is selected using the projection spectrum; then, a linear matrix equation is used to acquire a noise pseudo-eigenvector. Finally, the fine DOA estimation is obtained from an eigenspectrum approach based on the noise pseudo-eigenvector. Without the need to form the covariance matrix from a block of the array data and without a prior knowledge of the number of incoming signals, reduced complexity is achieved, in contrast to conventional subspace-based algorithms. Simulation results show that the proposed algorithm has a good resolution performance and deals well with both uncorrelated and correlated signals. Since the new approach can reduce computational complexity while maintaining better or similar resolution capability, it may provide wider application prospects in real-time DOA estimation when contrasted to other comparable methods.