TABLE OF CONTENTS The objective of this Chapter is to provide an introduction to those methods that have been used to process data. The area of signal processing is so extensive that only a basic introduction to the topic is possible. The recommended references will provide further material for those wishing to investigate the topic in greater detail.
Inevitably, some users may consider that their favourite method has not been given sufficient prominence or that some combinations of methods may provide improved performance. Unfortunately, it is impossible to satisfy all interests.
The author's view is that signal processing is primarily a means of reducing clutter. Fundamentally, the signal to clutter ratio of the radar data is the key to target detection. Most system noise in GPR systems can be reduced by averaging. GPR is heavily contaminated by clutter, and reduction of this is a key objective. The cost-benefit of implementation should be clearly demonstrated before superficially attractive but practically unsound methods are incorporated. Clearly, the wide range of targets, applications and situations encountered is likely to task even the most robust algorithm, and the user should assess the latest algorithm with some care.
The general objective of signal processing as applied to surface-penetrating radar is either to present an image that can readily be interpreted by the operator or to classify the target return with respect to a known test procedure or template.
The image of a buried target generated by a GPR radar will not, of course, correspond to its...
