Optical Array Shape Estimation (ASE)

Current methods used to determine the shape of towed sonar arrays are limited to basic models that use data from heading and depth sensors. These sensors are prone to measurement noise especially during maneuvers. The research team recognizes that neither a fiber optic measurement system nor a physics based model can achieve the desired accuracy for array shape independently. Through the combination of Aither’s fiber optic shape measurement system and Makai’s physics based modeling of towed systems, the research team proposes the development of the Fully Integrated Fiber Optic - Towed Array Shape Estimation System (FIFO-TASE). The system takes the innovative approach of incorporating both the fiber optic shape measurement data with input from the physics based model to realize the shape and orientation of the tow cable and towed array system. In this manner, the fiber optic sensor data is used more effectively, where the physics based modeling allows for filtering of inaccurate data and improved results when in “noisy” tow states. The FIFO-TASE system builds on the decade of work conducted by Aither personnel in the field of tow cable and array shape sensing providing an innovative means of enhancing and improving the resultant shape estimation.