Sonar Images from Well-Known Simulated Raw Data

Sonar is a technique used to observe the underwater scene over large distances. Active sonar is mainly used for imaging or for bathymetry. With modern sonar both uses are now possible. To form a high resolution three-dimensional image, an active side-scan sonar is used. To develop algorithms in order to obtain an image, we need experimental data. One of the difficulties in the analysis of sonar data is the lack of seabed in order to repeat an experiment exactly in the same environment. To overcome these problems, a sonar signal simulator can be used. In this paper, we describe processing sequences including a sonar signal simulator, micro navigation and Synthetic Aperture Sonar (SAS) algorithms. Many simulators use a perfect platform motion. Here, the platform path can be modified. Nevertheless, it is possible to have the accurate position of the platform for each sample, which is not possible with experimental data.