Seismo-acoustic ray model benchmarking against experimental tank data.

Area of Science:

• Underwater acoustics
• Seismo-acoustics
• Waveguide propagation

Background:

• Shallow-water environments pose challenges for acoustic modeling due to complex bottom interactions.
• Existing models often simplify bottom properties, limiting accuracy.

Purpose of the Study:

• To benchmark the newly developed traceo ray model against experimental data.
• To assess the model's accuracy in predicting acoustic propagation in a Pekeris-like waveguide with an elastic bottom.

Main Methods:

• Utilized tank experimental data from EPEE-1 and EPEE-2 experiments.
• Employed the traceo ray model, incorporating bottom shear properties.
• Compared model predictions with experimental results.

Main Results:

• The traceo ray model demonstrated high accuracy, comparable to parabolic approximation models.
• Benchmarking confirmed the model's ability to account for bottom shear properties.
• Experimental validation supports the model's predictive capabilities.

Conclusions:

• The traceo ray model provides a reliable tool for seismo-acoustic applications.
• The ray approach is effective for modeling acoustic propagation in complex shallow-water environments.
• Preliminary experimental validation confirms the model's potential for real-world use.