Abstract: The present invention relates to a method and associated apparatus for the detection and identification of a sound event comprising collecting audio data from an acoustic sensor; processing the collected audio data to determine periodicity of the sound, processing the collected audio data to isolate transient and/or non-linear sounds and processing the collected audio data to identify frequency modulated pulses, in parallel to produce three output data sets; and combining and comparing the output data sets to categorise the sound event as being mechanical, biological or environmental. The method is particularly useful for detecting and analysing sound events in real time or near real-time and, in particular, for sonar applications as well as ground (including seismic) monitoring or for monitoring sound events in air (e.g. noise pollution).

Abstract: An acoustic reflector suitable for use as a reflective target for navigational aids and for location and re-location applications. The acoustic reflector comprises a shell arranged to surround a solid core. The shell is adapted to transmit acoustic waves incident thereon into the core. Within the core the acoustic waves are focused before being reflected from an opposing side of the shell to provide a reflected acoustic wave. The shell has at least two areas of transmissibility such that the waves incident on the shell follow separate paths within the core before being re-radiated and combining constructively to provide an enhanced reflected acoustic wave at one or more pre-determined frequencies.

Abstract: An acoustic reflector (10) suitable for use as a reflective target for navigational aids and for location and re-location applications. The acoustic reflector comprises a shell (12) arranged to surround a solid core (16). The shell is adapted to transmit acoustic waves (18) incident thereon into the core (16). Within the core the acoustic waves are focused before being reflected from an opposing side of the shell (20) to provide a reflected acoustic wave. A portion of the acoustic waves incident on the shell is coupled into the shell wall and guided within and around the circumference thereof (26) before being re-radiated and combining constructively with the reflected acoustic wave to provide an enhanced reflected acoustic wave.

Abstract: An acoustic reflector (10) suitable for use as a reflective target for navigational aids and for location and re-location applications. The acoustic reflector comprises a shell (12) arranged to surround a solid core (16). The shell is adapted to transmit acoustic waves (18) incident thereon into the core (16). Within the core the acoustic waves are focused before being reflected from an opposing side of the shell (20) to provide a reflected acoustic wave. A portion of the acoustic waves incident on the shell is coupled into the shell wall and guided within and around the circumference thereof (26) before being re-radiated and combining constructively with the reflected acoustic wave to provide an enhanced reflected acoustic wave.