Optimizing Multibeam Survey Line Layouts Through Geometric Calculations and Target Optimization

Abstract

The multi-beam bathymetric system enables the simultaneous collection of multiple seabed depth values within a swath, facilitating a transition from point measurements to line and area measurements. In this study, this article selected a sloped maritime area as our survey target and proposed a hybrid survey line model that incorporates both east-west and north-south orientations. The goal was to design an optimal survey line layout with the shortest total length. To achieve this, this article established a mathematical model for a nonlinear programming problem by considering geometric relationships and aggregating overlap widths, with the objective of minimizing the total length of survey lines. Employing nonlinear regression methods, in this article, the optimal number of survey lines and their respective lengths were determined to meet coverage requirements, and optimal survey line planning was conducted. This article successfully addressed the challenge of optimal path planning for vessels conducting explorations in unknown maritime areas, ultimately concluding that the hybrid model required shorter total survey line lengths. Through analysis, this article discovered that substituting the last survey line with north-south-oriented lines yielded a superior solution, significantly enhancing vessel detection efficiency.