An acoustic array platform comprising multiple spaced microphones and associated
processing electronics/algorithms projects distinct beams in a chosen look direction
across which moving objects such as vehicles pass. These moving objects are accurately
detected, classified and counted at extended ranges. The acoustic microphone array
employs optimized beamforming to create specially focused listening directions
that function as a "motion detector" and "trip line counter". Algorithms detect
and confirm the appropriate presence of objects moving through the beams and perform
other algorithmic tests to verify that the object is a valid object to be counted.
The proposed approach is realized with modest sized acoustic arrays and a reasonable
number of microphones by employing an adaptive beamforming algorithm that achieves
enhanced directivity in a principal look direction and which significantly reduces
the effects of interferers outside the precise steering direction of the "trip line".
