Acoustic Scattering Experiments and Models

Objectives of this project include improving methods for acquiring acoustical signatures of targets in water and models for understanding such signatures and methods of extracting, displaying, and using signatures. One of the approaches in the proposed research concerns aspects of target responses to acoustic radiation forces of focused sound beams. Thiscomponent involves laboratory experiments and development of underlying theory. Other components of the research concern complications resulting from target proximity to interfaces or target placement in waveguides. Aspects of the research involve elastic responses of targets at high frequencies and associated signature contributions. Related aspects concern the transmission of sound through the walls of targets and associated contributions to signatures and acoustical images. These include laboratory-based tests. This research should aid indiscriminating between natural acoustic clutter and man-made objects of interest. Thus the research is relevant to improving the use of acoustic scattering for object identification and improving naval capabilities.