Time delay estimation algorithm based on virtual Array and MUSIC for single sensor system

Aiming at improving time delay estimation (TDE) in the case of single sensor, a novel method of constructing virtual sensor array is presented, and furthermore the MUSIC delay estimation algorithm based on the virtual array is proposed. The approach and complete procedure of the algorithm are given. The relationship between the number of virtual array elements and the constructed signal is studied, and the method of determining the minimum number of elements under the condition of estimation time delay accurately is given. The simulation experiments of the presented algorithm have been carried out from three angles of view. The least virtual array elements and the minimum subspace dimensions needed in this algorithm is verified. We obtained the performance of time delay estimated by the algorithm under sparse path and dense path conditions respectively. This paper also illustrated the high precision and high-resolution characteristics of the proposed method.