On Efficient Signal Processing Solutions for Multichannel Sensor Array Applications

This paper addresses the efficient implementation of signal processing algorithms tailored for multichannel sensor array systems, with a particular focus on an underwater acoustic surveillance and detection application employing both linear and circular sensor arrays. Real-time processing of data from these arrays necessitates an optimized implementation of signal processing onto digital hardware. The paper delineates the processing requirements of signal processing algorithms suitable for sensor array systems, providing mathematical formulations to compute their processing load. By evaluating linear and circular sensor array configurations, it quantifies the processing load of key algorithms such as beamforming and spectral analysis, aiming to guide the selection of an appropriate processing architecture leveraging Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS) processors. The study proposes an implementation approach emphasizing the average time cost of signal processing algorithms using contemporary COTS processors. Results demonstrate that the latest Intel-based multicore processors exhibit comparable efficiency to equivalent Digital Signal Processing (DSP) processors in effectively implementing signal processing algorithms, thereby facilitating real-time system operation.