Array design and motion effects for matched field processing

Abstract

While matched field processing (MFP) algorithms have most commonly been applied to data collected on vertical line arrays, there is increasing interest in applying MFP to more general array geometries. One challenge for novel array design is to determine the fundamental performance of volumetric arrays in a shallow water channel. To address this issue, recent work by Tantum and Nolte [J. Acoust. Soc. Am. 107, 2101–2111 (2000)] has been extended to allow more general array geometries, including horizontal arrays steered away from endfire. The correlation among acoustic modes across the array can be related to MFP resolution and sidelobe levels. Another trend in underwater array design is the consideration of larger arrays which provide additional array gain. However, large arrays are susceptible to the effects of motion [Zurk et al., Oceans 99]. A new time series simulation that rigorously treats source and receiver motion is used to quantify the effects on adaptive MFP. Simulation results are compared to data from the Santa Barbara Channel experiment (SBCX). [This work was sponsored by DARPA under Air Force Contract F19628-95-C0002. Opinions, interpretations, conclusions, and recommendations are those of the authors and are not necessarily endorsed by the United States Air Force.]