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Variations in recorded acoustic gunshot waveforms generated by small firearms
Steven D Beck1, Hirotaka Nakasone, Kenneth W Marr
1BAE Systems, 6400 Tracor Lane 27-16, Austin, Texas 78725, USA. steve.beck@baesystems.com
The Journal of the Acoustical Society of America
|April 12, 2011
Summary
Analyzing gunshot acoustics reveals firearm waveform variations. Source characteristics, distance, and angle significantly impact muzzle blast signals, crucial for forensic acoustics.
Area of Science:
- Acoustics
- Forensic Science
- Signal Processing
Background:
- Understanding firearm acoustic signals is vital for forensic analysis.
- Waveform variations depend on source, environment, and recording systems.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze variations in acoustic gunshot waveforms from different firearms.
- To investigate the effects of distance and angle on sound propagation.
Main Methods:
- Empirical analysis of acoustic signals from various small firearms and ammunition.
- Simultaneous microphone recordings at different distances and azimuth angles.
- Controlled experimental conditions to isolate influencing factors.
Main Results:
- Gunshot waveforms comprise multiple acoustic events influenced by distance and azimuth.
- Muzzle blast characteristics are primarily affected by source blast size, microphone distance, and angle.
- Ground reflections and ballistic shockwaves can interfere with waveform measurements.
Conclusions:
- Confirmed and quantified waveform correlations under varied configurations.
- Source, distance, and angle are key determinants of recorded gunshot acoustics.
- Environmental factors and recording setups influence signal fidelity.
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