Using multibeam echoes in seafloor 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 paper concerns the experiment which has been carried out in Gdansk Bay water region in autumn 2008 as a continuation of the experimental verification of the proposed method. The results obtained using multibeam sonar data records from several bottom types are presented and discussed. It was confirmed that the information extracted from multibeam seafloor sensing data, e.g. ldquowater columnrdquo may be useful in seafloor characterisation.