Goals

The ocean acoustic signal processing research goal is to derive robust sonar detectors and classifiers that make use of ocean acoustic models and limited knowledge of the random and/or uncertain environment, the target characteristics, and the sonar system parameters.

A second goal is to train the next generation ocean scientists.

Research Rationale

Current sonar signal processors do not take into account the random and uncertain nature of signal propagation and scattering, target emissions or scattering, and sonar system performance in a real ocean environment.  Understanding ocean acoustic variability and uncertainty is being addressed by the Office of Naval Research (ONR) Defense Research Initiatives (DRI) on Capturing Uncertainty in the Common Tactical Environmental Picture. In addition, the Navy needs sonar signal processors that are able to incorporate models and knowledge of the uncertain and random undersea environment.  A key concept is that environment, target and sensor uncertainties are inexorably intertwined with the signal processor.