Algorithms for estimation and classification based on sensor arrays

• Grant number: 17/20161-0
• Support type: Regular Research Grants
• Duration: March 01, 2018 - August 31, 2020
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Electrical Engineering - Telecommunications
• Principal researcher: Vitor Heloiz Nascimento
• Grantee: Vitor Heloiz Nascimento
• Home Institution: Escola Politécnica (EP). Universidade de São Paulo (USP). São Paulo , SP, Brazil
• Assoc. researchers: Bruno Sanches Masiero ; Cassio Guimaraes Lopes

Abstract

This proposal is concerned with the study and development of new algorithms for multi-channel signal processing, particularly for estimation of acoustic images with microphone arrays, and estimation and classification of faults in mechanical structures using acoustic emissions. The focus is on low computational cost algorithms, for use in real time.We intend to continue developing methods based on the Kronecker Array Transform (KAT), proposed recently in a previous work. The KAT allows, under certain conditions, a considerable reduction in the computational cost required for estimation of acoustic images. We intend to compare more thoroughly the proposed algorithms with others in the literature, using both simulated and real data, which we intend to collect using the microphone arrays already built in our laboratory. We also intend to extend the KAT to allow the reconstruction of the actual signals coming from each direction (instead of only estimating their powers), achieving a better resolution in direction than is possible using beamforming techniques.Regarding the acoustic emissions problem, there is nowadays a deep interest in the development of techniques that allow continuous monitoring of a mechanical structure. We intend to develop new centralized and distributed algorithms for localization and classification of faults in mechanical structures, taking into account as much as possible prior information about the structure (such as dimensions of the specimen, position of rivets, changes in signal speed propagation). (AU)