Single Acoustic Array Localization of Airborne Launch Sites
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acoustic localization methods require multiple arrays to determine both direction and range of airborne objects, which is costly, complex, and inefficient, especially in noisy environments, and struggle with ambiguity in complex scenarios.
Innovation Solution
A system using a single acoustic array with processing circuitry to analyze unique acoustic signatures of airborne objects during launch, flight, and impact phases to determine range and direction, incorporating machine learning and acoustic profiling for accurate localization.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If multiple acoustic arrays are used for localization, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts and utilizes the unique acoustic signature characteristics of airborne objects during specific phases (launch, flight, impact) to enable range determination with a single array. By focusing on the distinctive acoustic features rather than relying on multiple arrays for geometric triangulation, the system achieves accurate localization without the complexity of multiple array installations.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the approach from spatial arrangement-based localization (multiple arrays) to acoustic parameter-based localization (single array with object-specific signatures). By analyzing parameters such as acoustic decay profiles, frequency content, and temporal characteristics that are unique to each object type and phase, the system determines range and direction using only one array, thereby reducing device complexity while maintaining precision.
2Measurement precision
If multiple acoustic arrays are deployed, then localization accuracy is improved, but infrastructure requirements and cost increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extracts the essential localization capability from the complex multi-array infrastructure and concentrates it into a single array that processes object-specific acoustic signatures. This extraction eliminates the need for multiple array installations, reducing infrastructure requirements while preserving localization accuracy through intelligent signal analysis.
Solution Approach 2:
The system replaces the mechanical/spatial arrangement approach (multiple physical arrays) with an information-processing approach (single array with advanced signal analysis). By substituting the physical complexity of multiple arrays with computational analysis of acoustic parameters, the system achieves the same localization accuracy with significantly reduced infrastructure.
3Measurement precision
If traditional acoustic localization methods are used, then range determination is achieved, but reliability in noisy environments deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies local quality by focusing analysis on the specific acoustic characteristics unique to each object type and phase. Instead of relying on general acoustic field measurements that are easily contaminated by noise, the system identifies and analyzes the distinctive local acoustic signature (e.g., specific frequency patterns, decay rates) of the airborne object, which provides reliable identification and range determination even in noisy environments.
Solution Approach 2:
The system incorporates feedback mechanisms where detected acoustic signatures are compared against stored profiles of known airborne objects. This feedback loop allows the system to verify detected events, resolve ambiguities, and maintain high reliability in noisy conditions by cross-referencing observed acoustic characteristics with expected patterns for different object types and phases.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enables accurate and efficient localization of airborne object launch sites in diverse environments, reducing infrastructure needs and personnel risk, and enhancing defense capabilities with rapid countermeasures.
Implementation Method 1
Acoustic localization of an object involves capturing its sound emissions with acoustic sensors (e.g., microphones) to determine its position. The direction to the object can be estimated using an acoustic array by analyzing the differences in arrival times or in phases of the sound waves at the different microphones within the array.
Data Source
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AI summary
The disclosed subject matter includes a system and method for acoustic-based localization of airborne object launch sites using a single acoustic array. The technique leverages object-specific acoustic signatures generated during launch, flight, and impact phases to extract signal parameters for range and direction estimation. By processing these parameters, the system identifies acoustic events and associates signals with a corresponding object type. For detected events, the system calculates a range between the acoustic array and the launch site based on an acoustic profile of the identified object type, determines a direction from the array to the launch site, and derives the launch site location from one or more calculated ranges and directions. This enables cost-effective, portable, and reliable localization of launch sites, providing actionable intelligence and enhancing defense capabilities in diverse operational settings.