Prototype Sparse Arrays for 3D Sonar Imaging System

摘要

A three dimensional sonar imaging system is under development for use by Navy divers for mine-field reconnaissance and mine-hunting systems. These divers require a small, low power, lightweight acoustic imaging system with high resolution for examining and disposing of underwater ordinance. Sparse array technology is being investigated to develop a sonar requiring the minimal number of signal processing channels while maintaining the beamwidth and sidelobe structure required for high resolution imaging. Beamwidth and sidelobe structure are examined as a function of transducer element count, channel bandwidth, and element location when optimized using various cost functions. Test results for a prototype line array evaluated in the NUWC Acoustic Test Facility are reported.