The effect of slope and vessel speed on the performance of a single beam acoustic seabed classification system

Abstract

Although the emergence of an acoustic single beam seabed classification system appears promising as a cost-effective tool to acquire information about bottom types, some limitations of this technology with respect to vessel speed and rough terrain have been identified. To further refine this technology, we examined the QTC View system to determine if it would work in an area such as the Gulf of Alaska, which is characterized by deep water, steep slopes, heterogeneous substrate. Studies were undertaken to evaluate the operational limits with respect to vessel speed and bottom slope. Results indicate that speeds between 3 and 12 kn have no significant effect on classification performance, but bottom slopes exceeding approximately 5–8° appear to cause a complete breakdown in classification accuracy. The potential of trawl-mounted sonar systems, currently under evaluation, as a potential solution to expanded range of operation over bottom slopes is discussed.