Implementation of underwater target and background simulator based on DSP

With the development of sonar technology, equipment for target detection and location based on underwater sound waves has experienced extensive applications. However, due to the limitations posed by the cost and operational cycle of underwater experiments, target and background simulators are necessary for the design, implementation, analysis, and performance testing of modern underwater guidance systems. In view of this, this study proposes a docking electrical-signal target background simulator, which can realistically simulate both the motion and spatial characteristics of underwater targets in real-time. Meanwhile, it can also simulate background noise and main background reverberation interference, which can effectively replace underwater tests. The proposed target background simulator uses a high-speed DSP(DigitalSignalProcessor)and a computer platform to realize real-time simulations of electrical signals received by array elements of an underwater guidance system in an actual underwater navigation state. In this study, both hardware composition and software design based on parallel processing are described in detail, and the generation principles of the target echo, background noise, and reverberation are discussed. The developed target background simulator is verified experimentally, and the results demonstrated strong real-time performance, expandable functions, and large dynamic range. Finally, the proposed design can be beneficial for the trial production of underwater guidance systems.