Sonar Signal Processing

This intensive short course provides an overview of sonar signal processing. Processing techniques applicable to bottom-mounted, hull-mounted, towed and sonobuoy systems will be discussed. Spectrum analysis, detection, classification, and tracking algorithms for passive and active systems will be examined and related to design factors. Advanced techniques such as high-resolution array-processing and matched field array processing, advanced signal processing techniques, and sonar automation will be covered. 

• Fundamental algorithms for signal processing.
• Techniques for beam forming.
• Trade-offs among active waveform designs.
• Ocean medium effects.
• Shallow water effects and issues
• Optimal and adaptive processing

Dr. Bruce Newhall has over 40 years’ experience in underwater acoustics, sonar, and signal processing. He was chief scientist for several large scale Navy experiments and the supervisor of the Acoustic and Electromagnetics Group at the Johns Hopkins Applied Physics Lab. He has served as Associate Editor for the IEEE Journal of Oceanic Engineering. In recognition of his innovative work, he is a fellow of the Acoustic Society, received the bronze medal from the NDIA and is the 2017 recipient of the Donald W. Tufts award in underwater acoustic signal processing from the IEEE.

Scott Hayek has participated in and led a variety of signal analysis and technology development efforts as a member of APL’s Principal Professional Staff. He received B.S. and M.S. degrees in physics from the University of Maryland. He joined APL‘s Submarine Technology Department in 1978, working in ocean physics and signal processing, and also worked for 3 years in the Naval Warfare Analysis Department in radar signal intelligence. Mr. Hayek has been the principal investigator and test scientist for various sea tests studying the performance limits of passive and active sonar. Mr. Hayek later acted as technical consultant to an APL maritime surveillance program and ultimately became Program Manager before retiring from APL.

1. Introduction to Sonar Signal Processing. Introduction to sonar detection systems and types of signal processing performed in sonar. Correlation processing, Fournier analysis, windowing, and ambiguity functions. Evaluation of probability of detection and false alarm rate for FFT and broadband signal processors.
2. Beamforming and Array Processing. Beam patterns for sonar arrays, shading techniques for sidelobe control, beamformer implementation. Calculation of DI and array gain in directional noise fields.
3. Passive Sonar Signal Processing. Review of signal characteristics, ambient noise, and platform noise. Passive system configurations and implementations. Spectral analysis and integration.
4. Active Sonar Signal Processing. Waveform selection and ambiguity functions. Projector configurations. Reverberation and multipath effects. Receiver design.
5. Passive and Active Designs and Implementations. Design specifications and trade-off examples will be worked, and actual sonar system implementations will be examined.
6. Advanced Signal Processing Techniques. Advanced techniques for beamforming, detection, estimation, and classification will be explored. Optimal array processing. Data adaptive methods, super resolution spectral techniques, time-frequency representations and active/passive automated classification are among the advanced techniques that will be covered