MATLAB Simulation of CORDIC Algorithm: Implementation and Applications

CORDIC (Coordinate Rotation Digital Computer) algorithm is an iterative approximation method for computing mathematical functions such as trigonometric and hyperbolic functions. Known for its hardware-friendly architecture and computational efficiency, this algorithm finds widespread applications in digital signal processing, graphics, and embedded systems.

Implementing CORDIC algorithm simulation in MATLAB typically involves the following core concepts: Fundamental Principle: The algorithm utilizes iterative vector rotation processes, approximating target function values through simple shift-and-add operations while avoiding complex multiplication or division operations. Mode Selection: CORDIC can operate in rotation mode (for angle/magnitude calculation) or vectoring mode (for arctangent computation), requiring adaptation of iterative logic based on computational objectives. Error Control: Iteration count directly impacts precision, necessitating a balance between computational resources and result accuracy. Typically, 12-16 iterations suffice for most practical applications. MATLAB Implementation: Using script-based or modular function design, iterations can be implemented through loop structures with intermediate result visualization to verify algorithm convergence. Key implementation aspects include pre-computed rotation angles stored in lookup tables and iterative coordinate updates using bit-shift operations equivalent to multiplication by 2^(-i).

For graduation research projects, combining with supporting papers enables deeper exploration of CORDIC's hardware mapping optimization (such as pipeline design) or extended applications (like FFT acceleration), demonstrating the algorithm's flexibility in engineering practice. Simulation comparisons with traditional function libraries can highlight CORDIC's advantages in resource-constrained scenarios, where MATLAB code can demonstrate reduced computational complexity through operation counting and resource utilization analysis.