Exploring modern bathymetry: A comprehensive review of data acquisition devices, model accuracy, and interpolation techniques for enhanced underwater mapping

Building a high-precision bathymetry digital elevation model is essential for
navigation planning, marine and lake resource planning, port construction, and
underwater archaeological projects. However, existing bathymetry methods
have yet to be effectively and comparatively analyzed. This paper
comprehensively reviews state-of-the-art bathymetry methods, including data
acquisition techniques, model accuracy, and interpolation algorithms for
underwater terrain mapping. First, We assess the merits and drawbacks of
novel data acquisition devices, such as single-beam/multi-beam echo
sounders and light detection and ranging systems. After that, we analyze the
accuracy of the ETOPO1, GEBCO_2022 and SRTM15 to provide valuable insights
into their performance. Furthermore, we evaluate ANUDEM, Inverse Distance
Weighting, Kriging and Nearest Neighbor interpolation algorithms in different
underwater terrains by comparing their applicability, reliability, and accuracy in
various underwater environments. Finally, we discuss the development trends
and challenges in underwater bathymetry technology and offer a forwardlooking
perspective on the future of this essential field.