Interpretation and fusion of sonar images using evidential reasoning

Abstract

A method and system architecture for automatic interpretation and fusion of multiple sonar images is proposed. The interpretation of a sonar image consists of the creation of a symbolic geographical map indicating the belief in the presence of objects and structures on the sea-bottom. Fusion of information from multiple images of the same site is at the symbolic level. Both interpretation and fusion are based on the Dempster-Shafer theory of evidence. The system can be used for interpretation of images containing man-made as well as natural objects irrespective of model type. The method is applied to fusion of information from images acquired with an experimental sonar system with two simultaneous views.