Multi-Mode antenna specific direction-of-arrival estimation schemes

Classically, phased antenna arrays are utilized for direction-of-arrival (DoA) estimation. When size and weight constraints apply, novel multi-mode antennas (MMAs) seem to be an interesting alternative. This paper shows that DoA estimation with MMAs is feasible and accurate. A suitable non-parametric antenna model for the MMA is found. It is then applied to compare the DoA estimation performance of a power-based non-coherent receiver scheme with a coherent receiver. Fundamental limits are derived and simulations are performed to evaluate the performance of the estimation schemes. DoA estimation with MMAs is shown to be possible with reasonable accuracy for the investigated antenna prototype. The coherent receiver scheme clearly outperforms the non-coherent alternative.