Multi-static object tracker using specular cue initiation and directed data retrieval

Abstract

Methods, computer-readable means, and systems for minimizing false alarm rates and operator loading while conducting multistatic active sonar operations are disclosed. A plurality of sensor nodes is established, with each sensor node including an active sonar source, and a receiver. Each sensor node has a local storage center, and each node is connected to a data fusion center. During active sonar operations, a high threshold (HTH) and a low threshold (LTH) setting is established. For each sensor node, all sonar return data above the LTH setting are stored at its respective storage center. The HTH is set so that only specular echo returns exceed the HTH; when the HTH setting is exceeded, the fusion center retrieves LTH data from each storage center corresponding to the same specular echo return, in order to establish a track for the contact.