Space-Time Adaptive Processing as a Solution for Mitigating Interference Using Spatially-Distributed Antenna Arrays

NAVIGATION Journal of the Institute of Navigation, vol. 70, pp. navi.592

Abstract

Summary Antenna arrays and spatial processing techniques are among the most effective countermeasures against interference. Here, we demonstrate a new array concept consisting of spatially-distributed subarrays that are small enough to fit inside the non-metallic parts of an automobile. This will facilitate concealed installation of these devices in bumpers or side mirrors, which is a strict requirement of the industry and preferred by the customers. Using beamforming algorithms, this array was proven to be robust against jammers in the L1 band. The large distances between the individual antenna elements resulted in a non-negligible baseband delay that violated the narrowband assumption and increased with bandwidth. Hence, this paper demonstrates the influence of a jammer in the L5 band. Space-time adaptive processing that allows for compensation of the delays was introduced and analyzed. Improvements in interference mitigation capabilities were assessed and compared to those of pure spatial state-of-the-art implementation. Real-life measurement data was used to ensure realistic results.

Authors 6

1. Marius Brachvogel Aachen Chair of Navigation

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Navigation, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany

2. Michael Niestroj Aachen Chair of Navigation

   RWTH Aachen University

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Navigation, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany

3. Michael Meurer Aachen Chair of Navigation

   RWTH Aachen University · Deutsches Zentrum für Luft- und Raumfahrt e. V. (DLR)

   Affiliation as printed

   Chair of Navigation, RWTH Aachen University, Aachen, Germany

   Institute of Communications and Navigation, German Aerospace Center (DLR), Wessling, Germany

4. Syed N. Hasnain

   Technische Universität Ilmenau

   Affiliation as printed

   RF & Microwave Research Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany

5. Ralf Stephan

   Technische Universität Ilmenau

   Affiliation as printed

   RF & Microwave Research Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany

6. Matthias Hein

   Technische Universität Ilmenau

   Affiliation as printed

   RF & Microwave Research Group, Technische Universität Ilmenau, Ilmenau, Germany