A coupled mode model for omnidirectional three-dimensional underwater sound propagation

Area of Science:

• Ocean acoustics
• Computational physics

Background:

• Accurate modeling of acoustic propagation in complex ocean environments is crucial for sonar and underwater communication.
• Existing models often struggle with strong range dependence, mode coupling, and 3D effects.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a fully three-dimensional (3D) omnidirectional numerical coupled mode model for acoustic propagation.
• To evaluate the model's performance in a realistic, strongly range-dependent ocean scenario.
• To investigate the impact of varying mode coupling and bathymetry on acoustic signals.

Main Methods:

• Developed a numerical coupled mode model integrating normal mode and finite element computational techniques.
• Applied the model to a 3D ocean environment simulating the Hudson Canyon.
• Analyzed acoustic propagation from multiple source locations with varying bathymetric depths.

Main Results:

• The 3D model successfully simulated acoustic propagation in a complex, range-dependent environment.
• Variations in bathymetry and mode coupling significantly influenced acoustic signal characteristics.
• The model demonstrated capabilities in capturing effects of strong refraction and reflection.

Conclusions:

• The developed 3D omnidirectional coupled mode model is a capable tool for studying acoustic propagation in complex ocean environments.
• The findings highlight the importance of considering 3D effects, mode coupling, and bathymetric variations for accurate acoustic modeling.