Enhanced uniform linear array performance using modified minimum variance distortionless response beamformer algorithm

Abstract

MVDR algorithm which is based on adaptive uniform linear array produces optimal weight to each element in the array and gets perfect signal direction of arrival (DOA). Any mismatch in the signal DOA estimation mitigates the behavior of MVDR. Mismatch in MVDR is affected by the reference element location assumption in the elements' array. In this paper a new method is proposed to modify the standard MVDR by selecting the reference element to be in the middle of the elements' array rather than on one side. This modification produces a more realistic environment to deal with incident signals impinging the array. The results show that the Modified MVDR outperforms the standard MVDR.