Integration and Visualization of ADCP Current and Water Column Multi-Frequency Scattering

Hughes Clarke and Cartwright

CFI, Prov. NB and Simrad

As part of our research thrust to better monitor the water column from underway vessels (primarily for the purpose of sound speed field estimation) we have examined other acoustic imaging tools including high frequency scattering and acoustic Doppler current profilers.

Even though these tools do not directly map the sound speed field, because the sound speed properties are strongly linked to water mass distribution, if we can monitor the boundaries of these water masses we can more accurately predict the temporal and spatial variation in the water column between our discrete point-specific sound speed profiles.

We have developed software to integrate Knudsen scattering profiles with concurrently collected ADCP data. These tools allow us to build up a picture of the temporal evolution of the water column. In order to test these tools under the most critical conditions, we have focused on the particularly dynamic environment of the Lower St. John River Estuary. Y2001 research is planned to extend the project to the Frazer River mouth wherein CHS survey activity is currently particularly focused.

for more details, see: example animations