Exploring Multi-Beam Bathymetry Problem Using Traditional Modeling Approach

Multibeam echo sounder (MBES) is an improvement upon the traditional single-beam depth measurement method, allowing for the simultaneous measurement of the depth of multiple points, thereby enhancing survey efficiency and data accuracy. In this study, we first established a coverage width model for multibeam depth measurement. We concluded that during seabed scanning, depth areas should have sparse measurement lines in deep regions and dense measurement lines in shallow regions to minimize gaps in measurements for a fixed line length. Secondly, we developed different-angle multibeam depth measurement coverage width models using traditional mathematical modeling techniques and found that the coverage width remains consistent when the included angles of the measurement lines sum to a specific value. We then investigated the optimal overlap rate between adjacent swathes, which should be in the range of 10% to 20%, and determined that the minimum line length required for complete coverage of the entire area is 137,048 meters. Finally, based on single-beam depth measurement data from a specific marine area, we designed a rational and efficient multibeam depth measurement scheme.