Method and apparatus for enhanced resolution of range estimates in echo location for detection and imaging systems

A filter for use in processing range data in a system that transmits signals p(k) to reflecting objects and processes signals reflected from such objects, the filter comprising:

• first means for processing the transmitted signals p(k) to generate compensation factor H(.omega.);
• and
• second means for combining the reflected signals and the compensation factor H(.omega.) to contract the main lobe and suppress the side lobes of the range ambiguity function without changing the bandwidth of the transmitted signals.

A method for enhancing the resolution of range estimates for detection and imaging systems wherein signals p(k) are transmitted and other signals are received, the steps of the method comprising:

• using the transmitted signals p(k) to generate a compensation factor H(.omega.);
• and
• combining the received signals with the generated compensation factor H(.omega.) to contract the main lobe and suppress the side lobes of the range ambiguity function without changing the bandwidth of the transmitted signals.

A method for processing range data in a system that transmits signals to reflecting objects and processes the signals reflected from the objects, the steps of the method comprising:

• processing the transmitted signals p(k) to generate a compensation factor H(.omega.);
• and
• combining the reflected signals and the compensation factor H(.omega.) to contract the main lobe and suppress the side lobes of the range ambiguity function without changing the bandwidth of the transmitted signals.