Standoff acoustic-to-seismic landmine detection

This paper addresses a potential method to advance acoustic landmine detection by increasing operator and equipment standoff range from the minefield and developing a lightweight system that is potentially more practical than many currently researched systems. In this study, a parametric array acoustic source is evaluated to understand its potential for landmine detection. The array can transmit audible signals over 100 meters in air and has a weight of just four pounds. A proof-of-concept system was built at M.I.T. Lincoln Laboratory that uses a commercial parametric source to insonify the ground and excite buried mines. A commercial laser vibrometer was then used to measure the displacement velocity at the ground surface on and off the mine. This system has been demonstrated at an outdoor landmine facility and has measured signatures from buried anti-personnel mines. The overall concept shows promise; however, the parametric source used in this preliminary test was developed for home entertainment and will require substantial modification to be practical for landmine detection.