Modeling and Simulation of SWARA Path Loss Model for Underwater Acoustic Communication in Multipath Environment

Abstract

Effective communication in underwater environments is essential for numerous applications, including marine research, oil and gas exploration, and underwater surveillance. However, signal loss during propagation is a significant challenge for underwater communication systems. Accurate mathematical models are necessary to develop and optimize communication systems for underwater environments. This research proposes a mathematical model, SWARA, that incorporates crucial parameters such as transmitter and receiver responses, channel conditions, node placements, and signal frequency to accurately model short-range losses in underwater medium. We conducted tank trials at the UWAA Lab, CARE, IIT Delhi to validate our simulation results, using a chirp signal with a frequency ranging from 25–35 kHz. Our simulation results show that the SWARA model effectively predicts short-range propagation losses in underwater media. Compared to experimental losses, the maximum and minimum simulated losses deviated by only − 0.18–0.10 W/Hz and − 0.36–0.19 W/Hz, respectively, indicating the accuracy of the model. Our tank trials further revealed the significant impact of projector and hydrophone placements on incurred losses, highlighting the importance of careful placement in the design of underwater communication systems. In conclusion, this research proposes the SWARA model for studying short-range losses in underwater tank, which effectively incorporates crucial parameters for accurate modeling. The model has practical applications in the design and optimization of underwater communication systems for short-range applications. This research provides important insights for the development of effective underwater communication systems.