Dynamic Target Detection and Visualization Using Low Cost SONAR Technology

In autopilot and small surveillance systems, the potentialities of Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR) sensors can be harnessed to augment safety, and efficiency, and enhance the overall efficacy. The authors propose using the HC-SR04 sensor, which utilizes SONAR technology, to develop a low-cost Internet of Things (IoT) system that identifies, locates, and measures the velocity of stationary and moving targets. However, the sensor readings were susceptible to a plethora of noise factors, including acoustic disturbances, environmental conditions, and physical obstructions. Hence, a discrete Kalman filter (KF) algorithm was developed which improved the sensor's performance by 35.24%. Concurrently, DHT11 sensor was used to account for temperature effect on ultrasound. Subsequent to target detection, their spatial coordinates were visualized in a Graphical User Interface (GUI). The proposed system detected targets within a range of 2 cm to 4 meters within a 180-degree arc. The novelty added to this study was the development of an algorithm to detect dynamic targets and real-time monitoring through a GUI, which was developed using the Qt platform. The system successfully detected both stationary and moving targets, providing real-time information about their location, speed, and direction. This data can significantly improve safety, security, and operational efficiency.