Novel structure and processing way for planar antenna array

A combined structure of microwave and digital processing is presented for a planar antenna array. The processing method and algorithm for the structure is developed. It can implement estimation of direction of arrival（DOA）by fully digital processing and form beam in two ways. One is fully digital processing. The other is a matrix processing corresponding to the array formation:a digital microwave phase shifter is used to combine the received radio carrier wave into beam in elevation; then digital beam forming is implemented to synthesize final pattern. Estimation of spatial DOA through two linear arrays is developed to reduce time expending. Simulation and measurement results show the flexibility and feasibility.