Techniques for Automatically Exploiting Passive Acoustic Sonar Data Navy SBIR FY2006.2 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2006.2 Topic No.: N06-138 Topic Title: Techniques for Automatically Exploiting Passive Acoustic Sonar Data Proposal No.: N062-138-0499 Firm: 3 Phoenix, Inc. 13135 Lee Jackson Hwy Suite 330 Fairfax, Virginia 22033-1907 Contact: Russell Jeffers Phone: (703) 956-6480 Web Site: www.3phoenix.com Abstract: The current passive anti-submarine warfare (ASW) sonar processing paradigm is manpower-intensive, and relies heavily on expert operators to perform the classification function. 3 Phoenix proposes to apply innovative signal processing technologies to achieve a high level of automation in the detection and classification process in order to reduce the manning and workload levels required for passive ASW. Based on our analysis of many hours of sea test data over the years, we believe that most contacts are readily identifiable by narrowband analysis, and that with the additional features described in this proposal, a high probability of correct classification can be achieved for most contacts. 3 Phoenix will develop innovative signal feature extraction algorithms and target classification architecture while leveraging mature beamforming, signal processing and tracking technologies to address the problem of automatic classification for operator alert. Benefits: An effective automated operator alert paradigm in which automated screening and classification is followed by operator confirmation can provide more capable passive ASW capabilities even with reduced manning. Navy sonar operators will no longer be required to page through multiple displays in order to detect and classify all contacts, but rather, can focus their attention on the likely targets of interest. We plan to identify specific in-service or in-development systems that can benefit technically from improved passive sonar automation. These include DDG 1000 (see below), ARCI improved Bell Ringer capability, SQQ-89 TRAFS and Passive Functional Segment (PAFS), WSQ-11 Torpedo Defense System for large decks (PMS415), and LCS ASW Mission Module. Return