Using multibeam echoes in seafloor characterisation and classification

The method of seabed identification and classification from multibeam sonar echoes is presented. The proposed approach is based on calculation of a set of parameters of an echo envelope, similarly as in seafloor classification using single beam echosounder. These parameters are extracted for each consecutive beam allowing the estimation of their dependence on the seafloor incident angle. The relation between seabed type and calculated echo parameters and its angular dependence, is investigated. The results obtained using sonar data records from several bottom types in Gdańsk Bay water region are presented and discussed. It has been primarily justified that the proposed approach may be useful in seafloor characterisation.