Underwater Acoustic Scattering Laboratory (UASL)
The Underwater Acoustic Scattering Laboratory (UASL) is used to undertake research on various aspects of sound scattering from underwater objects such as submarines, surface ships, rocks and bubble clouds.
It supports two major areas of work: anti-submarine warfare and torpedo systems. In both areas, the results of the acoustic scattering measurements are used for development and validation of mathematical models of sound interaction with and scattering from underwater objects.
The experiments conducted in the UASL also support the development and testing of signal processing algorithms for classifying underwater objects, for example methods for distinguishing submarines from bubble plumes or rocks. The UASL is built around a large fresh water tank which is isolated from ground vibrations and has acoustically treated walls to reduce internal acoustic reflections.
The laboratory technology features an accurate automatic positioning system for placing and rotating underwater objects, transducers that create acoustic waves across a wide range of frequencies and a sophisticated data acquisition system.
The facility is used additionally DST Group scientists for testing and calibration of acoustic equipment, such as sonars and hydrophones.