Advanced Multi-Sensor Array System (AMAS)

In this Phase I SBIR, Vista Clara and Quantum Magnetics propose to demonstrate the feasibility of detecting and tracking military vehicles at very long ranges using a long-baseline array of magnetic and acoustic sensors. Our AMAS system concept is based on a novel multi-sensor acquisition device, and advanced magnetic/acoustic data fusion techniques. The Phase I work plan will establish the technical feasibility of this concept by accomplishing the following tasks: 1) assemble and test 4 copies of the prototype data acquisition device; 2) develop and evaluate magnetic noise mitigation algorithms and long-baseline magnetic/acoustic tracking algorithms; 3) demonstrate prototype hardware and tracking algorithm performance through Phase I field experiments at Picatinny Arsenal. The proposed work builds directly upon Vista Clara's recent advances in magnetic array processing and magnetic/acoustic sensor fusion techniques, and QM's unparalleled expertise in the design and fabrication of inexpensive magneto-resistive magnetometers. As a Phase I Option, Vista Clara and QM will design, assemble, test and deliver a universal magnetometer calibration instrument, and investigate the feasibility of magnetic/acoustic data fusion for ground vehicle classification.