Sonar Signal Processing 1998
2024
This paper presents predictions of the vertically strati ed ambient noise eld due to wind, rain and shipping noise sources using the DERA/BAe SEMA ambient noise model CANARY in both deep and shallow water environments.Discrimination against this ambient noise environment using a representative vertical line array is shown through the use of conventional and adaptive beamforming.Finally trade-offs between array geometry and array performance are highlighted. l. lNTRODUCI'IONAn understanding of the ambient noise eld and its directional characteristics is essential if we are to optimise sonar array design and its associated beamforrning in ambient noise limited environments.However an understanding of the directional nature of the noise eld is only one component in achieving optimum array performance.Matching' the sonar con guration to the environment in which it will be operating must be fundamental to our thinking if we are to avoid optimising one side of the problem whilst ignoring the other.Recent works by Cowley, Harrison and Holden,, have described a novel approach to modelling noise coherence and ambient noise levels in arbitrary environments, and have validated this model, CANARY', in realistic scenarios using measured data.These papers have concentrated on describing the vertical ambient noise eld, over a wide range of frequencies, environments and operational scenarios.