A method for extracting angle information of direct P wave in shallow burst point localization based on wireless sensor array

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to extract the angle information of direct P wave within multidimensional vibration signals obtained through the sensor array, and to realize high precision shallow burst point localization based on direct of angle (DOA). Design/methodology/approach This paper presents a method which combines adaptive covariance matrix (ACM) algorithm with geometric constraint conditions for extracting the angle information of direct P wave by using its polarization characteristics. First, modify the obtained three-dimensional vibration data by using attitude rotation matrix and unify the coordinate system of vibration field. Next, construct the beam model of direct P wave by making use of ACM algorithm and extract its angle information. Finally, modify P wave beam model by taking advantage of the space geometric constraint relations between nodes. Findings The results of numerical simulation show that this method not only can extract the angle information of direct P wave arriving at each node effectively, but also can evaluate the quality of extracted angle information of direct P wave. Meanwhile, the results of underground shallow explosion experiment show that this method can extract the angle information of direct P wave of each node significantly and can realize underground shallow explosion source localization based on DOA by using this information, the location error can be limited less than 50 cm and satisfies the location requirements of shallow burst point. Originality/value This paper provides a method for various problems of underground localization based on the sensor array, such as directional demolition blasting, underground damage assessment, earth-penetrating projectile burst point positioning in weaponry industry testing plant, etc., and has definite value to engineering application in underground space positioning field.