Array surveying using matched-field processing

Abstract

In this paper, the problem of localizing a vertical line array of sensors is studied in the context of matched-field processing. A broadcasting source is assumed deployed in a known environment at a known location from a vertical line array. Array surveying is discussed and a simple procedure using a correlation measure and a standard multidimensional optimization algorithm is proposed to resolve the array shape. First, this procedure is used on simulated data and convergence is demonstrated. Then, the method is used on data collected at sea in September 1987 with a 900-m-long array with 120 sensors. The derived array sensor positions are found consistent with previous analysis results. The positions found by the optimization procedure have a noisy character which is thought to be due to deviations of the individual array element gain and phase characteristics from their nominal calibrations.