Analysis of location precision when using a dual subsurface-buoy system with a vector hydrophone

In order to analyze the precision of locations determined by the dual subsurface-buoy system when using vector hydrophones,mathematical expressions for the geometrical dilution of precision were derived starting with the principles appropriate for a bearings-only passive positioning system.These were combined with the conditions suitable for the application of vector hydrophones and subsurface-buoys so that simulation parameters could be selected.The impacts of base length,directional errors and station positional errors on positioning accuracy were studied.Computer simulations and mathematical analysis showed that positional accuracy can be improved by increasing the base length.Even a small directional error caused very large positional errors and the location errors caused by station positional errors have a minimum value which is larger than the station positional error itself.The mininum value of location errors caused by station position error is 2～(1/2) times of the station poision error.The result of this study can provide an important reference for practical applications of the subsurface-buoy system.