Depth-based signal separation with vertical line arrays in the deep ocean

Area of Science:

• Ocean acoustics
• Signal processing
• Array signal processing

Background:

• Deep vertical line arrays utilize the reliable acoustic path (RAP) for low transmission loss (TL) to moderate range targets.
• Surface interference sharing favorable RAP propagation complicates submerged target detection without horizontal aperture.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a method for depth-based signal separation using vertical line arrays.
• To overcome limitations in distinguishing submerged targets from surface interference.

Main Methods:

• Introduction of a physics-based Fourier transform variant.
• Exploitation of spatial structure from direct and surface-reflected acoustic paths.
• Depth-based signal separation without prior ocean environment knowledge.

Main Results:

• Demonstration of effective depth-based signal separation through simulations.
• Successful isolation of target signals from surface interference.
• Validation of the method's independence from environmental parameters.

Conclusions:

• The proposed physics-based method enables effective depth-based signal separation for submerged sources.
• This technique enhances target detection in the presence of surface interference.
• The approach offers a robust solution for underwater acoustic signal processing.