Modeling Pulse-to-Pulse Coherent Doppler Sonar

Abstract

Coherent Doppler sonar provides a powerful tool for probing boundary layer flows under field and laboratory conditions. However, velocity profiling applications of this technique are complicated by characteristic velocity and range ambiguities. Proper implementation for any application requires careful design so that performance can be accurately predicted. In this paper, a computer model capable of simulating coherent Doppler operation is presented. The point scatterer model operates in three dimensions and accommodates bistatic transducer geometries. Excellent agreement is demonstrated between model simulations and laboratory trials. Some simple model applications are presented. The model has been developed for profiling applications but is equally suited to modeling point measurement acoustic Doppler velocimeters.