Bat Signal Processor

Both the bat and the dolphin use high frequency sonar to locate prey. Although these systems are radically different, both require the reception and processing of short duration signals. In recent years, understanding of both the bat and dolphin sonar systems has increased dramatically through the efforts of university and government researchers. Additional progress in parallel computer architectures and neural network processing has now made the design of a bat or dolphin signal processor and classifier feasible. As a result, ARPA now desires the development of such a system consisting of a sonic receiver, signal conditioner, signal processing algorithm and a neural net realization of either the bat or the dolphin. Their intent is to study the echoes produced by both real animals and artificial means to gain insight that might result in either military commercial spin-offs. Our proposed Phase I research will focus primarily on bat biosonar processing because of the availability of more extensive neurophysiological data. We will evaluate candidate processing schemes using simulated bat signals and compare the resulting high-level bat system designs with requirements for dolphin processing. The sonar of the mustached bat will be used to develop a detailed desig the receiver, signal conditioner, processing algorithms, and neural network. Procurement specifications for prototype components will be prepared and all efforts will be documented. Phase II efforts will produce a prototype sonar system based on the Phase I design for the mustached bat and evaluate this system through laboratory and field testing. Results of the evaluation will be documented. ORINCON is uniquely qualified to develop this bat signal processor and classifier because of its extensive signal processing, active sonar, and neural network experience acquired on various ARPA Navy programs and its innovative RIPPENtm software and PRIISM hardware to which can be rapidly brought to bear on this problem. Anticipated Benefits/Potential Applications - Potential military applications include improved acoustic echo localization/classification for undersea mine detection/classification, unmanned underwater vehic