A mobile self synchronizing smart sensor array for detection and localization of impulsive threat sources

Smart sensors are becoming an integral part of the evolving technology landscape; their ability to share reduced data over networks enables live data fusion, which significantly improves sensor performance and situational awareness. A lightweight, mobile acoustic sensor network has been used as an infrastructure to layer multi-sensor fusion algorithms, for detection of impulsive events such as gunfire or explosions. The system can create actionable information within seconds, and can be used to direct assets such as unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) to specific coordinates, for eyes-on assessment in under a minute. The sensor array will be discussed in terms of its three primary components: the smart sensors, the synchronization network, and the fusion algorithms. Performance of the array from recent tests will be examined with respect to small arms and simulated mortar fire, and producing actionable information. In addition, test results will be discussed in context of autonomous control of UAV assets and potential applications.