Signal Processing For Dense Fields Of Miniature Impulsive Sources And Sonobuoy Receivers

The Navy requires a new modular signal processing architecture to host various candidate algorithms in support of the dense field of miniature sonobuoy concept. The dense field concept is in direct support of the N88 Air ASW Vision Statement which states that “continued pursuit of the miniaturization of sonobuoys, including the EER sources and receivers, is important for overcoming load restrictions and maximizing search area coverage and prosecution response flexibility.” The SBIR solicitation cites several processing advantages that a dense field has over longer range systems. Improved ability to make environmental predictions, greater chance of multiple detections, and increased usable bandwidth are some of the primary advantages. The Navy is seeking a processing architecture that is modular to allow easy substitution and evaluation of algorithms intended to exploit these advantages. Our Phase I approach is to first define a modular baseline impulsive signal processing architecture for use as a standard. Next, we plan to perform a performance analysis of a number of innovative algorithms identified in the solicitation using simulated data. If selected for the option, we plan to host the baseline modular architecture in the RDA L-CAP processor in preparation for evaluation with real data in Phase 2. BENEFITS: The newly developed modular signal processing architecture will provide the SH-60 and UAV platforms with a processing framework to evaluate improved detection and classification algorithms intended to exploit the advantages of the dense field concept. The goal of this effort is to merge the technology and algorithms developed and evaluated in Phases I and II into the Navy’s dense field ASW system as a planned product improvement program in Phase III. In terms of non-military potential, the proposed sensor could be used for monitoring the migration paths of marine mammals. The new sensor could also be of value to the Coast Guard in both its homeland defense and drug interdiction missions.