Enhanced Multi-Beam Echo Sounder Simulation through Distance-Aided and Height-Aided Sound Ray Marching Algorithms

Abstract

The study proposes two innovative algorithms in the field of multi-beam echo sounder (MBES) simulation: distance-aided sound ray marching (DASRM) and height-aided sound ray marching (HASRM). These algorithms aim to enhance the efficiency and accuracy of MBES simulations, particularly when dealing with long-distance propagation and real-time processing limitations. DASRM addresses issues related to simulation accuracy by efficiently utilizing the KD-tree for spatial indexing and intersection detection instead of the signed distance field (SDF). Building upon the further analysis of DASRM, HASRM is proposed, which improves the search strategy for ray intersections and utilizes a height field pyramid for sampling and retrieval, thereby reducing memory usage while enhancing indexing efficiency. The experimental results demonstrate that both algorithms significantly outperform traditional methods in terms of simulation time, with HASRM exhibiting particular advantages in parallel computing due to its data structure and improved strategies. Additionally, DASRM is well suited for applications requiring complex scene construction, while HASRM proves especially effective in simulating MBES with a focus on underwater terrain due to its effectiveness in handling large incident angles and long-distance propagation.

Keywords

• sonar simulation
• ray marching
• height field
• multi-beam echo sounder
• sphere tracing