Zero-of-time correction using the minimum support functional: theory and experiment

A major obstacle in inversion of elastic waves is the uncertainty in the phase also termed as the zero-of-time problem. In this work, we present a scheme for regularizing the underdetermined inversion of acoustic scattering data. This method adjusts the phase of each time signal to achieve a minimum support object. The technique is shown to be effective in estimating compact, discontinuous boundary scattering objects. The inversion is carried out using a nonlinear forward model for the acoustic wave propagation. The demonstrated effectiveness of the regularization suggests possible utility in applications such as nondestructive evaluation for cracks and voids, and the identification of submerged structures