Acoustic communication channel model in the under-ice environment

Abstract

We develop acoustic communication simulation tools that integrate acoustic wave propagation model with acoustic communication algorithms for the under-ice environment. Our acoustic model uses the BELLHOP ray model augmented with multiple ice layers. Assuming a three-layer model, i.e. seawater/ice/air, we derive matrix expressions for the reflection and transmission coefficients of sound incident from seawater to ice. With the obtained reflection and transmission coefficients, we apply the BELLHOP ray tracing method to the under-ice environment. Impacts of sound frequency, incident angle, and thickness of ice on the reflection coefficient are investigated. Transmission loss as well as channel impulse responses versus range are simulated by the modified BELLHOP ray tracing method.