Numerical and Statistical Approach to Survey System Analysis and Consequences Before, During and After Survey

Nicole Bergersen
Marine Geophysicist

Acoustic Imaging, Pty. Ltd.

Thursday, Apr. 20, 2017, 10:00am
Chase 130
Abstract

Acoustic Imaging is often tasked with resolving problems in client data or with integrating client survey systems. The majority of our clients are spread throughout Australia and New Zealand. Both countries offer unique challenges, particularly when the focus of our survey efforts is increasingly in remote regions with poor infrastructure.

Through troubleshooting numerous client projects and system setups Acoustic Imaging has developed a structured approach to system mobilisation, calibration, and validation that is equally applicable to resolving data problems before, during and after survey as it is to mobilising a vessel of opportunity (VOO). Instead of the typical approach to identifying a system problem by examining at the resulting bathymetry surface, we isolate each system component and use a suitable statistical or numerical method to validate each model parameter in turn. Each validated parameter can then be used to assist in validation of a subsequent parameter.

This methodology has been implemented before, during and after survey, from on-site problem solving to remotely supporting clients in the field to data correction following a survey. A recent Australian case from King Island, Tasmania will be presented.

King Island lies approximately equidistant from Victoria and Tasmania in the Bass Strait. The case involved a certified hydrographic surveyor tasked with mobilising an Applanix POS MV Wavemaster positioning and orientation system with a Kongsberg EM2040 multibeam echo sounder system. The system needed to be operational within a very small weather window, and communication was hindered by intermittent cell phone coverage.

Bio

Nicole Bergersen is a geophysicist with an interest in solving  data issues typically observed in the field or in post-acquisition. She works for Acoustic Imaging who primarily act a knowledge centre through Australia and New Zealand and service customers from defence, private survey contractors, government scientific organisations and research organisations. Through experience built up on vessels of opportunity, Acoustic Imaging has developed practical numerical and statistical approaches to methodically solving data issues in marine sensors.