Improved Magnetic STAR Methods for Real-Time, Point-by-Point Localization of Unexploded Ordnance and Buried Mines
Abstract
There is a pressing need for a practical and effective magnetic sensing technology that can be deployed onboard highly maneuverable sensing platforms and used for real-time, point-by-point detection, localization and classification (DLC) of magnetic targets such as ferrous unexploded ordnance (UXO) e.g., bombs, buried mines and artillery shells. Therefore the Strategic Environmental Research and Development Program (SERDP) has supported research and development, by Naval Surface Warfare Center Panama City Division (NSWC PCD), of a novel man-portable Magnetic Scalar Triangulation and Ranging (i.e., "STAR" and/or "MagSTAR") technology for DLC of UXO. The STAR concept uses scalar magnitudes of magnetic gradient tensors to triangulate the locations of magnetic targets. The magnitudes are analogous to central potential-type functions and they can provide true point-by-point DLC capabilities for sensing platforms in general, unconstrained motion. A prototype man-portable STAR Gradiometer was designed and constructed at NSWC PCD to provide a completely portable and user-friendly technology for real-time DLC of magnetic UXO. The prototype STAR Sensor comprises: a) A cubic array of eight fluxgate magnetometers. b) A 24-channel data acquisition/signal processing system. In field tests the man-portable sensor has demonstrated very robust, motion-noise-resistant DLC performance against isolated dipole type targets.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Sep 01, 2008
- Accession Number
- ADA502334
Entities
People
- John Oeschger
- Kwang Lee
- Roy Wiegert
Organizations
- Naval Surface Warfare Center