Abstract:In order to correct the signal time-difference of arrival estimation errors introduced by correlation peaks ambiguity in underwater acoustic passive localization, an ambiguity elimination algorithm is proposed based on the propagation characteristics of underwater sound. The physical essence of correlation peaks ambiguity is studied using the ray model of underwater acoustic propagation. Distribution disciplines are then summed up for correlation peaks caused by multi-path propagation in shallow sea acoustic channel. The amplitude and time-delay characteristics of correlation peaks between different paths are analyzed by simulations, and the ambiguity elimination algorithm is proposed based on correlation peaks classification and stable peaks tracing. The algorithm is used to estimate the time-difference of arrival for signal acquired in sea trial. Processing results show that estimation errors can be effectively corrected with the proposed algorithm.