Real-time data fusion processing of internetted acoustic sensors for tactical applications

Recent advances in acoustic sensors, microprocessors, local wireless communications, and low-cost global positioning satellite (GPS) receivers allow the creation of acoustic sensor networks for target detection, tracking, and identification. In particular we describe the concept of robust acoustic sensors that exhibit the ability for self-calibration and self-location. Use of such sensors in a wireless, internetted development provides accurate multi-sensor target tracking and classification. This paper describes the concept and design of such sensors and networks. Particular attention is paid to how the environment affects the sensor performance and system performance. Initial simulator results are presented