A Blind Beamforming Technique for Simultaneous Interference Suppression and Signal Maximization in Multiple Antenna GPS Systems

Adam L. Anderson, James R. Zeidler, Matt Nicholson, and Bryan Hoffman

Abstract:	Global Positioning System (GPS) source signal acquisition and tracking in a hostile environment is a significant technical issue for military scenarios. Multi-element antenna arrays can be successfully used to counter interference, but conventional arrays are often impracticably large and heavy for high-performance aircraft or small, specialized ground and air vehicles such as unmanned platforms or dismounted soldiers. Further, implementation of beamforming on the satellite signals requires both satellite location and array orientation information while in operation. One solution to this fielding problem is to apply random array signal processing techniques that allow for ad-hoc placement of the elements as best fits platform construction. The lack of channel knowledge resulting from a random array precludes the use of standard beamforming algorithms based on the traditional linear steering vector. The signal processor at the receiver must be able to handle data processing in a “blind” and distributed manner in order to reduce the detrimental effects of interference. In its ultimate realization the array can be re-configurable on-the-fly to allow for maximum flexibility in platform fielding. This paper addresses the issue of interference suppression with a randomly distributed antenna array in a GPS system.
Published in:	Proceedings of the 2007 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation January 22 - 24, 2007 The Catamaran Resort Hotel San Diego, CA
Pages:	669 - 674
Cite this article:	Anderson, Adam L., Zeidler, James R., Nicholson, Matt, Hoffman, Bryan, "A Blind Beamforming Technique for Simultaneous Interference Suppression and Signal Maximization in Multiple Antenna GPS Systems," Proceedings of the 2007 National Technical Meeting of The Institute of Navigation, San Diego, CA, January 2007, pp. 669-674.
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