Objective

Recently, several next generation EMI instruments have shown promise in improving data quality and thereby increasing the accuracy and dependability of detection and discrimination post processing algorithms. To date, most of these instruments have been cart based systems meant for larger surveys with the exception of the MPV and the GEM-3D+ instruments. While significant improvements have been made, disadvantages remain such as uncertainties in positioning systems, non-portability in rugged/treed terrain, the physical coupling of the transmitter and receiver coil, and limits on easy operator choice of the spatial resolution of data for discrimination purposes.

This proposal incorporates two fundamental objectives regarding the detection and discrimination of UXO:

1. Research EMI sensor configurations in which the transmit(s) can be receiver(s) are physically separated or decoupled and can be operated in either cart-mounted or man-portable mode. Guided by performance criteria dictated by discrimination goals, systematically model, analyze, and evaluate design options, including those made possible by the physical decoupling of the Tx and Rx coil(s). Design a receiver array with a built-in highly precise positioning system based on the primary field of the transmitter(s). Adapt physical models and data collection schemes to take advantage of the new instrument’s flexibility and bistatic design.

2. Fabricate the instrument based on the results of the modeling phase, and test the discrimination capability in both the lab and at field sites.