Magnetic Array for Tracking and Characterization

Multiple magnetic sensors make up a networked configuration to detect, track, and classify various non-cooperative targets. Most of this work was supported by the DARPA contract “Magnetic Array.” We have developed a novel data acquisition and analysis system (real-time) for various tests and system optimization. The real-time system, Advanced Digilyzer, has found uses in field test, data acquisition, real-time tracking, and characterization of various non-cooperative targets.

CRS Real-Time Magnetic Tracking Software

This Windows® 95-based system uses Digital Signal Processors in conjunction with the host processor to acquire and process magnetic data. The system can track vehicle movement in real time, with graphic displays of raw data as well as vehicle tracks. It bases its tracks and classifications on induced field perturbations. Residual fields need to be modeled. The system relies on a pair of Analog Devices SHARC DSP chips to perform the analysis necessary to calculate the vehicle position in real time. The host processor manages the plotting, the data logging, and the DSPs.

Features include:

• Real-time position location using tri-axial magnetic sensors
• SHARC processors providing fast calculations for multiple sensors
• Real-time plotting of raw data and vehicle tracks
• Proprietary algorithm to calculate position, velocity, acceleration, and magnetic moments
• Graphical User Interface and Windows® 95 interoperability for ease of use
• Logging of data to disk for further analysis and review
• Multiple sensors (currently up to six) in integrated array to improve performance

Electromagnetic Modeling Tools for Low Frequency Electromagnetic Modeling

A fully 3-D electromagnetic modeling tool models the electromagnetic field perturbation produced through underground facilities and other inhomogenities in the ground. The code can use fully inhomogeneous terrain and facilities of arbitrary geometries. The only other code of this kind, developed by SANDIIA Laboratories, does not allow frequencies below about 1 KHz, because of computational limitations. Our code allows operation down to dc. The code has helped model the effects of underground facilities on the low-frequency electromagnetic field propagating over the ground.

The different modules can serve different purposes: detecting, tracking, and characterizing magnetic signals, electromagnetic signals, and perturbations from different non-cooperative targets. Examples include tanks, trucks, and soldiers with rifles and handguns. It can also detect perturbations in low-frequency electromagnetic fields produced by metallic targets, such as underground facilities.