Executive Summary
This thesis analyzes acoustic backscatter returns from complex rocky seafloors in Monterey Bay using multibeam echo sounder data. It evaluates statistical models, including Rayleigh, K, and mixture models, to better characterize these environments. The findings aim to improve the reliability of detecting anomalous objects on complex seafloors for naval applications.
Why It Matters
This research directly supports naval operations by enhancing the ability to detect objects on complex seafloors, which is critical for mine countermeasures, underwater reconnaissance, and safe navigation.
Key Takeaways
- Improved understanding of acoustic backscatter from complex rocky seafloors can enhance the reliability of detecting anomalous objects using sonar systems.
Source evidence · PDF page 4
Through developing a more robust description of the backscatter characteristics of complex bottom types like rocky outcrops, detection of anomalous objects on these bottoms will become more reliable through incorporation of this knowledge into detection algorithms.
- A 2-K mixture model was favored for fitting backscatter statistics in 11 out of 14 analyzed regions, indicating its general applicability for complex seafloors.
Source evidence · PDF page 44
Eleven out of fourteen regions favoring a 2 K mixture model when fitting their backscatter statistics, with the remaining three regions favored a 3 K mixture model.
- While 3-K mixture models sometimes showed higher p-values, the Bayesian Information Criterion (BIC) often favored the simpler 2-K mixture model, suggesting better balance between fit and complexity.
Source evidence · PDF page 44
Several regions showed a higher p value score for a 3 K compared to 2 K mixture, but exhibited a lower BIC value for 2 K compared to 3 K mixture.
Strategic Relevance
Accurate seafloor characterization and object detection are tactically and strategically important for naval forces operating in littoral and complex underwater environments, impacting anti-submarine warfare, mine warfare, and special operations.