Report of Project MICHIGAN. Section 6A: An Investigation of Factors Affecting Sound Ranging: Literature Search and Analysis.
Abstract
Sound ranging is a method of locating the position of enemy guns by comparing the differences in arrival times of the acoustic muzzle-blast waves arriving at arrays of microphones. The determination of the gun location is a simple process -- provided that the velocity of sound is constant or a completely known function of space, and provided that no timing errors are introduced by the instruments or the personnel. Since this ideal situation never exists, sound ranging at present provides only an approximation of the correct location of the sound source. The purpose of this report is to investigate all sources of errors in sound ranging, to determine the relative importance of these sources, and to recommend research programs designed to reduce sound-ranging errors. A search was made of the available literature on sound ranging and acoustic propagation in the atmosphere and have assembled a library of over 700 documents. That portion of the library used to derive the information and conclusions of this report appears in the List of References. Although some recommendations are presented throughout the text in connection with the individual subject areas, the final conclusions have been reiterated and summarized. Historically, sound ranging has proved its worth. Approximately 85% of the casualities in battle result from the effect of artillery, and several reports state that sound ranging can locate about 40% of the enemy guns.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 01, 1971
- Accession Number
- AD0880468
Entities
Organizations
- University of Michigan