Variable Resolution Bathymetric-Gridding Technology for Nautical Charting: Case Study CHRT Data

TitleVariable Resolution Bathymetric-Gridding Technology for Nautical Charting: Case Study CHRT Data
Publication TypeConference Proceedings
Year2013
AuthorsLamey, B, Riley, J, Froelich, G, Miller, J, Calder, BR
Conference NameU.S. Hydrographic Conference (US HYDRO)
Conference DatesMarch 25-27
PublisherThe Hydrographic Society of America
Conference LocationNew Orleans, LA, USA
KeywordsCHRT, Hydrographic Data Processing, Nautical Charting, Variable Resolution

This paper describes some of the tools and challenges associated with processing gridded variable-resolution bathymetry for use in nautical charting. Gridded data specifications for the navigation surface are ultimately dictated by the requirements for seafloor coverage and feature detection. It is vital to ensure that the piecewise-variable resolution of desired bathymetric content is accurately portrayed throughout the processes of visualization and product generation. Test data from NOAA hydrographic surveys that incorporate a variety of echo-sounder types (acoustic frequencies, beam widths) and bracket a wide range of bathymetry (depth and slope ranges, isolated features) are examined. Variable resolution grids are assembled from the CUBE with Hierarchical Resolution Techniques (CHRT) algorithm. The impact of variable resolution on bathymetric data exchange and standards thereof (BAG, S-102) is also discussed.