Exploration of DSP architectures in ultrasonic measurement applications

Abstract

A lot of modern ultrasonic measurement (UM) applications use digital signal processing (DSP). In many cases DSP architecture comprises a significant part of UM system hardware and cost, also it sets certain restrictions on measurement speed and signal-to-noise ratio. This paper deals with the influence of the DSP architecture into signal-to-noise ratio and its relevant characteristicsIt presents a concept of DSP architecture exploration in UM applications. According to this concept the integrated model "UM application - DSP architecture" is used to select the rational DSP architecture following the application requirements. The architecture exploration is illustrated with the correlational time delay estimation task. The exploration method was suggested and applied in two scientific projects that have done by Ultrasound Research Center and DSP Laboratory at Kaunas University of Technology. During these projects the ultrasonic vision system for mobile robot (project INCO-COPERNICUS No. ERB IC15-CT96-0726) and high precision ultrasonic gas flowmeter have been designed. In both cases signal processing was necessary and the DSP architecture design presented quite serious problem. The model is implemented in software and provides high flexibility. It can be modified for different DSP methods and signals, therefore, it is applicable for the design of various UM systems.