Integrating Seabed Topography and Ocean Current Dynamics for Submarine Trajectory Analysis

Abstract

In the face of growing global ocean exploration, the research focuses on overcoming the challenges of deep-sea navigation and the unpredictability of ocean currents to improve submarine pathway planning and trajectory prediction. This study proposes a method for improving submarine navigation and trajectory prediction through digital seabed mapping of the Ionian Sea and ocean current simulation. Using NCEI data, it transforms latitude and longitude into a geographic model, bypassing seawater variables like salinity and temperature. The approach combines sine functions and Gaussian noise to mimic ocean currents' natural variability, enhancing position predictions. Simplifying the submarine as a sphere, it integrates ocean currents into motion analysis and employs MATLAB for simulation, including scenarios of contact loss and breakup. Recognizing model limitations, it recommends using sensors on submarines for real-time data collection, aiming to refine navigational accuracy amidst environmental uncertainties.