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Adaptive Diagonal Loading for Norm Constrained Beamforming
Preprint

Adaptive Diagonal Loading for Norm Constrained Beamforming

Manan Mittal, Ryan M Corey, John R Buck and Andrew C Singer
05/05/2026

Abstract

Computer Science - Information Theory Computer Science - Sound Computer Science - Systems and Control Mathematics - Information Theory Statistics - Applications
Reliable adaptive beamforming is critical for large microphone arrays operating in highly dynamic acoustic environments. In scenarios characterized by fast-moving talkers and interferers, the available sample support for estimating the spatial correlation matrix is often snapshot-deficient. This deficiency, coupled with array imperfections, degrades the White Noise Gain (WNG), leading to severe target signal cancellation. To ensure stable and robust beamforming, we propose a novel adaptive diagonal loading method that guarantees the WNG remains strictly within specified bounds. By leveraging the Kantorovich inequality, we map the desired WNG to a strict upper bound on the condition number of the correlation matrix. Furthermore, we present three estimation techniques for the adaptive loading level, ranging from trace-based bounding to exact eigenvalue decomposition, offering scalable computational complexities of𝓞(M) ,𝓞(M²) , and𝓞(M³) . Our approach demonstrates highly stable beamforming under fast-changing interference.

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