A synthetic-aperture mode filtering for source localization by autonomous underwater vehicles

In this paper, a new technique of null-steering mode filtering for a synthetic aperture array is applied for the passive source localization on an AUV mounted array. The proposed method utilizes modal spatiotemporal consistency on a moving array in the stratified waveguide, and overcomes physical aperture limitation for source localization by the AUV mounted short horizontal array. The simulated results indicate that performance of source localization is improved and with faster moving speed, the beam side-lobe level of bearing estimation can be reduced.