Waveform diversity based sonar system for target localization

A new monostatic array system taking advantage of diverse waveforms to improve the performance of underwater target localization is proposed. Unlike the coherent signals between different elements in common active array, the transmitted signals from different elements here are spatially orthogonal waveforms which allow for array processing in the transit mode and result in an extension of array aperture. The mathematical derivation of Capon estimator for this sonar system is described in detail. And the performance of this orthogonal-waveform based sonar is analyzed and compared with that of its phased-array counterpart by water tank experiments. Experimental results show that this sonar system could achieve 12 dB–15 dB additional array gain over its phased-array counterpart, which means a doubling of maximum detection range. Moreover, the angular resolution is significantly improved at lower SNR.