Study of Novel Sparse Array Design Based on the Maximum Inter-Element Spacing Criterion

TL;DR

This paper introduces a novel sparse array design based on maximum inter-element spacing constraints, significantly increasing degrees of freedom and reducing mutual coupling compared to traditional arrays.

Contribution

The paper proposes the improved MISC (IMISC) sparse array configuration, enhancing uDOF and lowering mutual coupling by using a specific IES set constrained by maximum spacing and sensor count.

Findings

IMISC arrays have higher uDOF than traditional arrays.

IMISC arrays maintain low mutual coupling levels.

Simulations confirm the advantages of IMISC arrays.

Abstract

A novel sparse array (SA) structure is proposed based on the maximum inter-element spacing (IES) constraint (MISC) criterion. Compared with the traditional MISC array, the proposed SA configurations, termed as improved MISC (IMISC) has significantly increased uniform degrees of freedom (uDOF) and reduced mutual coupling. In particular, the IMISC arrays are composed of six uniform linear arrays (ULAs), which can be determined by an IES set. The IES set is constrained by two parameters, namely the maximum IES and the number of sensors. The uDOF of the IMISC arrays is derived and the weight function of the IMISC arrays is analyzed as well. The proposed IMISC arrays have a great advantage in terms of uDOF against the existing SAs, while their mutual coupling remains at a low level. Simulations are carried out to demonstrate the advantages of the IMISC arrays.