Sonar beamforming based upon monaural localization techniques

Sonar beamforming is usually accomplished using multielement transducer arrays. A novel alternative beamforming system is proposed, which uses a single fixed active element placed within an irregular reflecting surface. The proposed system is based upon one suggested mechanism of monaural localization. Interference resulting from reflections off the surface modifies the spectra of incoming acoustic signals. The signal source is located by correlating the output signal spectrum with the known spectral responses of the receiving system for all angles. Computer simulations and tests using an experimental active system indicate that the proposed technique could be a useful alternative in certain sonar applications.