Análise do sinal de retroespalhamento do ecobatímetro multifeixe e a sua relação com o fundo marinho

Abstract

The backscatter signal processing is related to an area that aids in the study of the ocean floor. When a multibeam echo sounder is used to process this signal, it becomes possible to enhance the quality of ocean floor data acquisition due to the simultaneous collection of bathymetry and return signal data. Furthermore, it allows the identification of seabed material composition. This study provides general information about creating seabed characterization mosaics and compares the performance of software packages such as SonarWiz Bathymetry, HYSWEEP, Qimera, CARIS HIPS & SIPS, and Fledermaus. Concerning backscatter, it was observed that it depends directly on sediment properties, including those related to the water-seabed interface (impedance and roughness terms) and the sub-bottom (volumetric heterogeneity terms). Each property's significance varies depending on the angle of sound incidence and the frequency used by the equipment. Therefore, the benefits provided by sediment analysis are advantageous for military, commercial, and scientific applications, allowing for resource optimization and improved processing techniques. There are also opportunities for enhancements in equipment calibration (that involves practical studies to establish parameters) and software development (which requires collaboration with equipment suppliers).