Foreword
Comments arising from the experience gained in the application of the guidance are welcome. They should be addressed to the Chair of the International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers at the above address. This document is published periodically. Please check with IHO for the latest edition, including current amendments.
Introduction
All components of the hydrographic surveying and nautical cartography profession face challenges as to how best to ensure the continuance of high standards and how best to ensure the continuation of best practices based on minimum standards of competence world-wide. In order to achieve these objectives, three international organizations (FIG, IHO and ICA) have developed Standards of competence that institutions or professional bodies may adopt for their educational/training programmes and competency schemes.
Standards indicate the minimum competences necessary for hydrographic surveyors. Standards recognize two levels of competence. Category “A” programmes introduces competences from the underlying principles level. Category “B” programmes introduce the competences from a practical level.
The intention is that a Category “A” individual with appropriate experience, would be a senior professional in their chosen field (government, industry, academia). Category “B” individuals with appropriate experience would be technical professionals leading and delivering products and services to meet specifications and outcomes.
Definitions
Subjects, topics, and elements
The S5-A standard contains the following list of Basic subjects, Foundation Science subjects and Hydrographic Science subjects:
Topics and Elements:
Each Foundation Science, Hydrographic Science or Basic subject comprises a list of topics which are denoted by Bx.y, Fx.y, or Hx.y;
Each topic contains elements which are denoted by Bx.y<c> Fx.y<c> or Hx.y<c>.
For example, the subject H1 “Positioning” contains the topic H1.1 Vessel and sensor reference frames that has the element H1.1a “Common reference frames for sensors”.
Learning outcomes and list of content
It is important to understand that each element is associated with:
one or more intended learning outcomes, that a student should be able to achieve on completion of the programme. All learning outcomes should be assessed. This may be done through one of, or a combination of, the following: examination, assessed exercise or presentation, laboratory report, or final project work.
a list of content. This list is associated with one or more learning outcomes and describes the theoretical knowledge or practical/technical context which the course syllabi should address in order to meet a particular learning outcome.
Programme preparation and submission
The preparation of a programme submission to the IBSC should be done in accordance with the document entitled GUIDELINES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STANDARDS OF COMPETENCE FOR HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEYORS. This document is available from the IHO website: www.iho.int → Standards & Publications.
The cross reference table is a mandatory requirement for a programme submission and MUST be completed. A template is specified and is available from the IHO website: www.iho.int
List of acronyms and initialisms used in this document
1D
One-dimensional
2D
Two-dimensional
3D
Three-dimensional
A
Advanced (level of knowledge)
ADCP
Acoustic Doppler Current Profiler
AIS
Automatic Identification System
ASV
Autonomous Surface Vehicle
AUV
Autonomous Underwater Vehicle
B
Basic (level of knowledge)
CAD
Computer Aided Design
CMFP
Complex Multidisciplinary Field Project
CW
Continuous Wavelength
DOP
Dilution of Precision
ECDIS
Electronic Chart Display and Information System
ECS
Electronic Chart System
ENC
Electronic Navigational Chart
EPIRB
Emergency Position Indicating Radio Beacon
F
Fundamental Sciences Subjects
FIG
International Federation of Surveyors
FOG
Fiber Optic Gyroscope
GEBCO
General Bathymetric Chart of the Oceans
GIS
Geographical Information System
GK
Gauss-Krüger
GLONASS
GLObal NAvigation Satellite System
GMDSS
Global Maritime Distress and Safety System
GNSS
Global Navigation Satellite System
GPS
Global Positioning System
GRS80
Geodetic Reference System (1980)
H
Hydrographic Sciences Subjects
HAT
Highest Astronomical Tide
I
Intermediate (level of knowledge)
IBSC
International Board on Standards of Competence for Hydrographic Surveyors and Nautical Cartographers
ICA
International Cartographic Association
IHO
International Hydrographic Organization
IMU
Inertial Motion Unit
INS
Inertial Navigation System
LAN
Local Area Network
LAT
Lowest Astronomical Tide
LiDAR
Light Detection And Ranging
MBES
Multi-Beam Echo Sounder
MEMS
Microelectromechanical systems
MSDI
Marine Spatial Data Infrastructure
MSI
Maritime Safety Information
MSL
Mean Sea Level
NAVTEX
Navigational Telex
NMEA
National Marine Electronics Association
NtoM
Notice to Mariners
P
Practicals (fieldwork and/or laboratories)
RAM
Random Access Memory
RINEX
Receiver Independent Exchange Format
RNC
Raster Navigational Chart
ROV
Remotely Operated Underwater Vehicle
S-44
IHO Publication S-44 — Standards for Hydrographic Surveys
S-100
IHO Publication S-100 Universal Hydrographic Data Model
S-102
IHO Publication S-102 Bathymetric Surface Product Specification
SARSAT
Search And Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking
SAS
Synthetic Aperture Sonar
SBES
Single Beam Echo Sounder
SG
Self-guided exercises (or student’s personal independent work)
SQL
Structured Query Language
SSDM
Standard Seabed Data Model
T
Theoretical (theory through lectures)
TIN
Triangulated Irregular Network
UNCLOS
United Nations Convention on the Law of the Sea
UPS
Universal Polar Stereographic
USBL
Ultra Short Baseline
UTM
Universal Transverse Mercator
WWNWS
World Wide Navigational Warning Service
XML
Extended Markup Language
1 BASIC SUBJECTS
1.1 B1: Mathematics, statistics, theory of observations
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
B1.1 Geometry and Linear Algebra | ||
B1.1a Geometry (B) |
| Express curves and surfaces in parametric form. Compute lengths and coordinates on an ellipse. |
B1.1b Linear Algebra (I) |
| Derive and compute 2D and 3D transformations, as typically involved in geodesy, surveying and survey data georeferencing. |
B1.1c Numerical methods for linear systems of equations (I) |
| Solve linear equations by numerical methods in a scientific computing environment and analyze error bounds. |
B1.2 Differential calculus and differential equations | ||
B1.2a Differential and integral calculus (B) |
| Apply differential calculus to real and vector valued functions from a n-dimensional vector space. Calculate integral of classical functions and approximate numerical values. |
B1.2b Differential equations (I) |
| Compute explicit solutions for linear ordinary differential equations and apply numerical methods to approximate solutions to non-linear differential equations. |
B1.2c Numerical solutions of non-linear equation (B) |
| Apply numerical methods to find approximate solutions for non-linear equations. |
B1.3 Probability and statistics | ||
B1.3a Probabilities and Bayesian estimation (B, I) |
| Define probability measures, derive associated formulae and calculate values from data. (B) Select a distribution for a given random variable and apply a Bayesian estimation method. (I) |
B1.3b Statistics (I) |
| Compute confidence intervals and associated statistical measures for random variables using various distributions. |
1.2 B2: Information and Communication Technology
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
B2.1 Computer systems (I) |
| Describe the different components of a real-time data acquisition system, including various modes of communication and time-tagging. Describe the role of a device driver and its relation to data exchange. Create/Configure a data link and evaluate any time delays across the link. |
B2.2 Office work software suites (B) |
| Use classical office work software suites. Prepare a poster describing scientific or project results. |
B2.3 Programming (B) |
| Write a program or script for data format conversion and/or basic algorithm computation. Configure a small network and transfer data over that network |
B2.4 Web and network services (B) |
| Describe the different network options used in remote data exchange and storage applications. |
B2.5 Databases (B) |
| Describe different types of geospatial data and their representation. Construct a database, populate it and query its content using a database language, such as SQL. |
1.3 B3: Physics
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
B3.1 Kinematics (B) |
| Explain the principle and the relationship between position, velocity and acceleration for both rotational and linear motion. |
B3.2 Gravity (B) |
| Differentiate between inertial and Earth fixed frames. Differentiate center of gravity from center of instantaneous rotation. Develop the mathematical relationship between potential and acceleration in a gravitational field. |
B3.3 Magnetism (B) |
| Describe ferromagnetic properties and resulting magnetic field. |
B3.4 Waves (B) |
| Explain harmonics in the context of waves and resulting constructive and destructive interferences patterns from multiple waves and sources. Use the Decibel scale to define intensity and characterize attenuation. Explain the Doppler effect. |
B3.5 Electromagnetic waves (B) |
| Calculate field of view and resolving power of optics. Describe aberrations. Describe the effect of wavelength on the propagation in a medium. Describe the effect of a medium in the propagation of an electromagnetic wave |
B3.6 Geometrical optics (B) |
| Model a light ray-path through medium with various reflective and refractive properties. Use the characteristics of a lens to calculate geometrical properties of an image. |
B3.7 Lasers (B) |
| Describe the operation, unique properties, and applications of stimulated sources of emission. |
B3.8 Transducers and clocks (B) |
| Describe different types of transducers and their calibration requirements. Describe time measurement devices in relation to their drift coefficient and accuracy. |
1.4 B4: Nautical science
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
B4.1 Conventional aids to navigation (B) |
| Describe the characteristics and purposes of fixed and floating aids to navigation and the use of automatic identification systems. |
B4.2 GMDSS (B) |
| Describe the components and purpose of GMDSS. |
B4.3 Nautical charts (B) |
| Plan and layout a route on a nautical chart, enter/plot positions, identify navigational hazards and revise navigational plan as required. Describe the content of a nautical chart and explain datum, projection and scale. Describe the uncertainty indicators associated with nautical charts. |
B4.4 Navigation publications (B) |
| Use content of nautical publications in a survey planning context. |
B4.5 Compasses (B) |
| Describe the capabilities, limitations and sources of errors of magnetic and gyro compasses. Determine and apply corrections for magnetic and gyro compass error. |
B4.6 Emergency procedures (B) |
| Explain the importance of the emergency equipment and procedures. Identify types of fire extinguishers and their use. |
B4.7 Safe working practice (B) |
| Describe procedures for maintaining a safe working environment. Design safe cable routes for survey instruments. Define procedures for securing equipment for heavy weather. |
B4.8 Rope and wires (B) |
| Select and tie basic knots. Select appropriate wire or rope. |
B4.9 Towed and over the side instruments (I) |
| Specify procedures for deployment and recovery of oceanographic and hydrographic equipment. |
B4.10 Anchoring (B) |
| Describe ship and small boats anchoring and ground tackle. Explain how the final position of the vessel can be adjusted through the use of anchors. |
B4.11 Instrument moorings (I) |
| Specify types of mooring and procedures for mooring underwater instruments. |
1.5 B5: Meteorology
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
B5.1 Weather fundamentals and observations (B) |
| Define physical meteorological parameters Operate instruments and sensors used to register temperature, pressure, direction and intensity of wind. Record these parameters according to internationally accepted standards. Identify characteristics of weather by simple observation of the sea and the sky. |
B5.2 Wind, waves and seas (B) | Explain the relation between atmospheric pressure, temperature and wind. Describe wind circulation around pressure systems and the effect of friction | |
B5.3 Weather forecasting (B) |
| Interpret a synoptic chart. Produce an operational short range forecast based on meteorological information, weather bulletins and facsimile charts. |
2 FOUNDATION SCIENCE SUBJECTS
2.1 F1: Earth Models
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
F1.1 Physical geodesy | ||
F1.1a The gravity field of the Earth (B) |
| Describe relationships between the gravity field of the Earth, normal gravity and level surfaces. |
F1.1b Gravity observations and their reduction. (B) | Explain methods for observing gravity and computation of gravity anomalies | |
F1.1c Height systems and height determination (B) |
| Describe different height models and the role of gravity-based heights in modern levelling networks. |
F1.1d Geopotential and geoidal Modelling (I) | Describe techniques used to model the Earth’s geopotential. Discuss the application and limitations of geopotential models and their verification in height determination. | |
F1.2 Coordinate Systems | ||
F1.2a Coordinate Systems for Positioning (I) |
| Explain principles of astronomic and geocentric datums together with their practical realizations. |
F1.2b Datum transformation techniques (A) | Compare datum transformation methods and transform coordinates between datums and between reference frames. Estimate transformation parameters from observations. | |
F1.2c Geodetic computations on the ellipsoid (I) |
| Assess the various solutions available for forward and inverse computations on the ellipsoid. Compare grid and spherical methods with ellipsoidal computations. |
F1.2d Three- Dimensional Geodetic Modeling (A) |
| Explain the mathematical model of 3D geodesy, integrating satellite and terrestrial observations. Evaluate a typical hybrid network, using commercial software. Describe application of 3D Geodesy to hydrographic survey control and 3D positioning of survey vessels. |
F1.3 Land surveying methods and techniques | ||
F1.3a Trigonometric surveys (I) |
| Select appropriate methods and use corresponding instruments for local positioning. |
F1.3b Existing survey control (I) | Recover survey marks and associated documentation with an appreciation for the datum and accuracy associated with the historical survey. | |
F1.3c Establishing survey control (I) | Establish terrestrial control using GNSS in accordance with published quality control procedures | |
F1.3d Instrument tests (I) | Field test and use distance and angle measurement instruments. Select appropriate field validation procedures | |
F1.3e Historical surveys (B) | Relate historical surveys to legacy positioning systems. | |
F1.4 Levelling | ||
F1.4a Levelling instruments (I) |
| Explain the principles of operation of instruments used in determination of height differences. |
F1.4b Height reduction (A) | Conduct surveys in accordance with standards. Reduce elevation measurements and use adjustment procedures. | |
F1.5 Map Projections | ||
F1.5a Map Projections (A) |
| Classify the properties of projections. Use parameters associated with map projections to compute distortion and apply corrections between geodetic and grid coordinates. Use geometrical properties of map projections to contrast and compare the use of different projections for different applications. |
F1.6 Trigonometry and least-squares | ||
F1.6a Trigonometry (B) |
| Apply plane and spherical trigonometry to surveying problems. |
F1.6b Theory of observations (I) |
| Differentiate between accuracy, precision, reliability and repeatability of measurements. Relate these notions to statistical information. Apply the variance propagation law to a simple observation equation, and derive an estimate uncertainty as a function of observations covariances. |
F1.6c Least squares (A) |
| Solve geodetic problems by least squares estimation. Determine quality measures for least square solution to geodetic problems, to include reliability and confidence levels. |
2.2 F2: Oceanography
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
F2.1 Physical Oceanography and measurements | ||
F2.1a Water masses and circulation (I) |
| Use the knowledge of spatial and temporal variability of the water masses to plan surveys. Establish a water column sampling regime for use within survey operations |
F2.1b Physical properties of sea water (A) |
| Specify oceanographic sensors to measure physical properties of sea water. Apply appropriate equation to estimate density and speed of sound. Create a sound speed profile. |
F2.1c Oceanographic measurements (I) | Specify equipment and procedures for oceanographic measurement to meet survey requirements. Configure and use oceanographic sensors and sampling equipment. | |
F2.1d Waves (B) |
| Outline wave generation processes. Describe the principles of wave measurement systems. Describe how beach survey monitoring strategies are related to wave regimes. |
2.3 F3: Geology and geophysics
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
F3.1 Geology | ||
F3.1a Earth structure (B) |
| Describe the structure of the Earth and explain the relationship between Earth processes and bathymetric /topographic features of the Earth. |
F3.1b Geomorphology (A) |
| Interpret geological information and relate expected seafloor features to hydrographic survey methodology and need for repeated hydrographic surveys. |
F3.1c Substrates (I) |
| Predict seafloor type and characteristics based on observations of local geological information. |
F3.2 Geophysics | ||
F3.2a Gravity fields and gravity surveys (B) |
| Explain the principle of operation of gravity meters and the need for corrections. Discuss the objectives of gravity surveys in relation to seabed features. |
F3.2b Magnetic fields (B) |
| Describe the Earth magnetic field, its spatial and temporal variability. |
F3.2c Seismic surveys (I) |
| Evaluate coverage and penetration of systems and correlate equipment with applications. Distinguish between noise, outliers, and real seafloor features and sub-seafloor geometry |
3 HYDROGRAPHIC SCIENCE SUBJECTS
3.1 H1: Positioning
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H1.1 Vessel and sensor reference frames | ||
H1.1a Common reference frames for sensors (A) |
| Specify a suitable vessel reference frame for sensor offsets and configure software to use values accordingly. Reconcile the application of offsets between various hardware and software components of the survey system. |
H1.1b Integration of reference frames (A) |
| Define and apply appropriate transformations between the different frames in the navigation solution. |
H1.2 GNSS positioning | ||
H1.2a GNSS Signals (I, B) |
| Describe the structure of signals broadcast by GNSS and explain the impact of the atmosphere on these signals. (I) Describe the characteristics of different components of GNSS and detail sources of information relating to the orbital and timing parameters. (B) |
H1.2b GNSS observables (A) |
| Write observation equations for different GNSS observables and develop mathematical and stochastic models for the solutions that include earth rotation and ionospheric elements. |
H1.2c Relative and absolute techniques (A) |
| Evaluate and select appropriate system for applications by aligning survey requirements with capabilities and limitations of GNSS techniques |
H1.2d Installation and operation (A) |
| Specify, supervise and test the installation of GNSS hardware and software for both inshore and offshore operations. |
H1.2e Quality control (A) |
| Develop a quality control plan for GNSS operations including risk management associated with GNSS components and services. Assess the performance of GNSS positioning against the defined quality control criteria. |
H1.3 Inertial navigation systems | ||
H1.3a Accelerometers and gyroscopes, inclinometers, and compass (A) |
| Describe accelerometer technologies, and differentiate between inclinometers, compass and gyroscopes. Describe error sources associated with these devices. |
H1.3b Strapdown inertial measurement units (A) |
| Describe the technologies used in inertial measurements and quantify associated navigation errors. Undertake static alignment of an IMU. Develop strategies for mitigating induced heave and select filter parameters for heave estimation. |
H1.3c Kalman filtering (I) |
| Apply Kalman filtering methods to a dynamic observation process. Define the parameters of a Kalman Filter in relation with sensors performances and dynamic model uncertainty. Differentiate between stationary and nonstationary observation processes |
H1.3d Aided inertial navigation (I) |
| Describe the role of aiding sensors to reduce INS navigation drift. Apply appropriate settings to filtering and smoothing for aided navigation solutions. |
H1.4 Subsea positioning | ||
H1.4a Acoustic positioning principles (A) |
| Describe the signal structure and observables of mobile and fixed acoustic positioning devices. Relate observables and platform orientation to relative positions through observation equations. |
H1.4b Acoustic positioning systems (A) | Explain how acoustic positioning observables, orientation and surface positioning data are used to achieve subsea rover spatial referencing. Specify the deployment and calibration methods for fixed and mobile acoustic positioning systems. | |
H1.4c Acoustic positioning error analysis (I) | Compute the total propagated uncertainty in acoustic positioning, accounting for time, sound speed and other observable errors. | |
H1.4d. Acoustic positioning applications (B) |
| Identify appropriate acoustic positioning solutions for different applications, considering potential sources of error. |
H1.5 Line keeping | ||
H1.5a Track guidance (B) |
| Specify the methods to be used in maintaining a survey vessel or remote survey system on a planned survey line or route and meeting sounding density specifications. Describe what may occur if the real-time navigation systems are interrupted during a survey. Explain how to compensate and mitigate for the effects of strong currents across a survey area/in a river estuary. |
3.2 H2: Underwater Sensors and Data Processing
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H2.1 Underwater acoustics | ||
H2.1a Transducers and generation of acoustic waves (I) |
| Analyze the effect of transducer design on beam characteristics and performance. Describe the design and use of multifrequency, wide-bandwidth and parametric transducers. Differentiate between chirp and CW transmission, and characterize their relative performance. Determine source level from typically available sonar specification. |
H2.1b Propagation of acoustic waves (A) | Explain how properties of the acoustic medium and source frequency affect the propagation of acoustic waves. Calculate propagation loss in practical situations, using medium property observations and available tables. | |
H2.1c Acoustic noise (I) | Identify the sources of noise and describe the effect of noise on echo sounding. Define the directivity index. Calculate the effect on sonar range of a variety of noise conditions and sonar directivity circumstances. | |
H2.1d Reflection, scattering and system performance. (I) | Define the characteristic impedance of an acoustic medium. Assess the effects of varying seafloor composition, texture, and slope on echo strength. | |
H2.1e Refraction and ray-tracing. (A) | Use the sound speed profile to compute the path of sound ray through the water column. | |
H2.2 Single beam systems | ||
H2.2a Single beam echo sounders principles (I) |
| Explain the principles of operation of a single beam sounder detailing how acoustic parameters influence sounder returns. |
H2.2b Single beam returns interpretation (A) | Interpret single beam returns including analysis of full echo envelopes and features of the sea bed and water column. | |
H2.2c Single beam survey system (A) |
| Specify survey system to perform a single beam survey in accordance with application requirements. Select appropriate range, scale, frequency and pulse for specific applications in relation to spatial resolution, bottom penetration, depth of water and water column analysis. |
H2.2d Processing of single beam data (I, A) |
| Specify processing workflow for single beam data. (I) Integrate and merge data of various sources and of various types in preparation for product generation. (A) |
H2.3 Sonar imagery systems | ||
H2.3a Side-scan sonar systems (A) |
| Evaluate, select and configure side-scan sonar in alignment with survey operational needs. |
H2.3b Synthetic Aperture Sonar (I) |
| Discuss and compare the use of SAS with that of more conventional sonar imaging systems. |
H2.4 Swath echo sounder systems | ||
H2.4a Multibeam echo sounders (A, I) |
| Explain the basic principles of multi-beam sonar transmit and receive beam forming and beam steering. (I) Explain the effect of aperture size and element spacing on array performance. (I) Analyze the techniques of amplitude and phase methods of bottom detection and relate them to depth uncertainty. (A) |
H2.4b Multibeam system parameters (A) | Tune acoustic parameters on-line for depth and backscatter. Determine the beam footprint size and sounding spacing across the swath and assess the limitations and likelihood of detecting objects on the seafloor under varying surveying conditions. Explain the use of water column returns and differentiate from bottom detection. | |
H2.4c Multibeam systems (A) |
| Specify survey system to perform a multibeam survey in accordance with application requirements. |
H2.4d Multibeam data processing (A) |
| Describe how and where data elements are combined to produce geo-referenced soundings. Integrate and merge data elements in preparation for data processing. |
H2.4e Interferometric Sonar (A) |
| Analyze the principles and geometry of interferometry and phase differencing bathymetric sonars and the arrangement of transducer arrays. Explain the need for filtering phase measurement data for depth, object detection and backscatter. Explain the effect of aperture size and transducer geometry on array performance. Assess the relative merits of multi-beam and phase differencing systems for specific mapping applications in water depths from very shallow to full ocean depths. |
H2.5 Backscatter | ||
H2.5a Backscatter from side scan, interferometric swath sonars and multi-beam echo sounders (A) |
| Specify and configure a side scan sonar and a swath echo sounder for backscatter acquisition under varying environmental conditions and for specific application. Monitor and assess quality on-line and apply appropriate compensation. Apply backscatter principles to produce a compensated backscatter mosaic. |
3.3 H3: LiDAR and Remote Sensing
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H3.1 LiDAR | ||
H3.1a Airborne LiDAR systems (A) |
| Determine the applicability of topographic and bathymetric LiDAR to specific mapping applications. Specify the appropriate LiDAR technology for given applications and identify supporting survey operations required to conduct the survey and process data. |
H3.1b Airborne LiDAR data products (I, A) | Identify potential sources of error in combined topographic and bathymetric LiDAR data and apply corrective processing techniques as appropriate. (I) Evaluate results (x,y,z) of specific bathymetric LiDAR surveys for compliance with hydrographic requirements. (I) Explain how to incorporate information from full waveform analysis in the production of LiDAR mapping products. (A) | |
H3.1c Terrestrial LiDAR (B) | Determine situations where terrestrial and vessel-based LiDAR data can be used to complement other coastal and offshore spatial data. Explain the need for calibration and validation of vessel-based LiDAR and describe how data from such system will be integrated with other data streams. | |
H3.2 Remote Sensing | ||
H3.2a Remotely sensed bathymetry (I) |
| Explain and compare the methods that enable depth to be determined from wavelength together with optical properties of both the water and the seabed. |
H3.2b Satellite altimetry (B) |
| Describe the principles and limitations of satellite altimetry products including sea-surface topography and derived bathymetry |
H3.2c Optical methods of shoreline delineation (I) |
| Describe geometrical properties of images and principles of orthorectification. Explain how imagery can be used in planning survey operations and in supporting hydrographic products. Compare image based methods with those of LiDAR for shoreline delineation |
3.4 H4: Survey Operations and Applications
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H4.1 Hydrographic survey projects | ||
H4.1a Hydrographic survey requirements (A) |
| Establish procedures required to achieve quality standards in hydrographic surveys. Specify the type of survey system and equipment needs together with associated parameters and procedures for various components of the overall survey operation. Evaluate the impact of local physical and environmental factors on survey results. |
H4.1b Hydrographic survey project management (A) |
| Prepare hydrographic specifications, instructions and tenders associated with survey objectives. Estimate the resources, scheduling and timing associated with hydrographic projects and prepare project plans including health and safety requirements, environmental issues and emergency response. Define, assign and distribute the roles and responsibilities of individuals within a survey team. Prepare progress reports and submit interim project deliverables. |
H4.2 Hydrographic survey operations | ||
H4.2a Survey planning (A) |
| Plan survey lines and schedule to accommodate environmental and topographic conditions for the vessel or aircraft and for towed, remote and autonomous vehicles. |
H4.2b Single Beam operations (A) |
| Specify survey procedures and quality assurance practices to perform a single beam survey in accordance with application requirements. Select appropriate range, scale, frequency and pulse repetition rate for specific application in relations to spatial resolution, bottom penetration, depth of water, and water column analysis. |
H4.2c Multibeam and Interferometric operations (A) |
| Specify survey procedures and quality assurance practices to perform a multibeam or interferometric survey in accordance with application requirements. Identify deficiencies in multi-beam echo sounder or interferometric sonar data, relate issues encountered to system or operational factors and respond appropriately. |
H4.2d Magnetic surveys (I) |
| Describe the capabilities and limitations of magnetometers and gradiometers in conducting object detection surveys. |
H4.2e Airborne LiDAR surveys (I) |
| Specify survey procedures and quality assurance practices to perform a LiDAR survey in accordance with application requirements. Specify LiDAR coverage and data density requirements for a survey. Assess LiDAR survey data (xyz point cloud and resultant depth grid) for adequacy and quality of overlap with adjacent acoustic survey data. Consider operational and environmental conditions in planning LiDAR surveys. |
H4.2f Side scan sonar operations (A) |
| Design and conduct a side scan sonar survey as part of an integrated data acquisition system in compliance with survey objectives. Explain and identify the effects of stratification of the water column and develop mitigating strategies for surveying in a variety of environmental conditions. |
H4.2g Side-scan sonar data interpretation (A) |
| Interpret side scan sonar imagery through assessment of individual and overlapping swaths to identify potential sonar targets for further investigation. Interpret side scan sonar imagery to assess differences in seafloor composition and topography. |
H4.3 Seabed characterization | ||
H4.3a Classification from acoustic data (I) |
| Explain the concept of incidence angle dependence and describe the signal processing steps required to obtain corrected backscatter data for seafloor characterization. Explain the techniques available and their limitations for observing, interpreting and classifying differences in seabed characteristics from acoustic sensors. |
H4.3b Classification from optical data (B) |
| Explain the techniques available and their limitations for observing and interpreting differences in seabed and inter-tidal zone characteristics from optical sensors. |
H4.3c Seabed sampling (I) |
| Plan a sampling campaign to classify the seabed as part of a survey. Use remotely sensed information to select sampling sites. |
H4.3d Seabed characterization (I) |
| Consider the combination of remotely sensed information with seabed samples in a seafloor characterization survey. Apply classification standards to seabed characterization results. |
3.5 H5: Water Levels and Flow
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H5.1 Principles of Water Levels | ||
H5.1a Tide theory (I) |
| Characterize features of the tide in terms of tide raising forces and local hydrographic features. |
H5.1b Non-tidal water level variations (I) |
| Evaluate the effect of non-tidal influences on water levels in the conduct of a hydrographic survey. |
H5.2 Water level measurements | ||
H5.2a Water level gauges (A) |
| Select appropriate type of water level gauge technology according to survey project operations. Install, level to a vertical reference, and calibrate a water level gauge while evaluating sources of errors and applying appropriate corrections. |
H5.2b Tidal measurement (A) | Evaluate and select appropriate sites for water level monitoring. Select water level gauge parameters for logging data, data communication, data download and for network operation with appropriate quality control measures. | |
H5.2c Uncertainty in water level (I) | Assess and quantify the contribution of water level observations to uncertainties in survey measurements. Assess the uncertainty in water level observations due to duration of observations and distance from water level gauge. | |
H5.3 Tide modelling | ||
H5.3a Harmonic analysis (I) |
| Compute standard harmonic constituents from astronomical periods. Derive harmonic coefficients and residuals from times series observations using Fourier analysis. Describe the computation of tide tables from harmonic coefficients. Compare the tidal characteristics and residuals of two tide stations using harmonic analysis. |
H5.3b Ocean water level (B) |
| Describe ocean water level models and observation methods. |
H5.4 Ellipsoid separation models and vertical datums | ||
H5.4a Separation models (I) |
| Explain the relationship between geoid, ellipsoid, and chart datum. Apply relevant offsets to convert between datums |
H5.4b Vertical Datums (A) | Select, establish, interpolate and transfer a vertical datum in various environments. | |
H5.4c Sounding reduction (A) | Reduce ellipsoidal referenced survey data to a water level datum using an appropriate separation model with an appreciation for associated uncertainty. Apply tide correctors to reduce survey soundings to a chart datum. | |
H5.5 Currents | ||
H5.5a Tidally induced currents (B) |
| Explain the forces behind tidally induced currents and describe temporal variations. Differentiate between tidal and non-tidal current. |
H5.5b Current measurement, portrayal and surveys (I) | Select, use techniques and instruments for current measurement. Plan current surveys. Use appropriate methods for processing and displaying current data. |
3.6 H6: Hydrographic Data Acquisition and Processing
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H6.1 Real-time data acquisition and control | ||
H6.1a Hydrographic Data acquisition (A) |
| Define, configure and validate a complex survey suite for different types of surveys in accordance with technical specification. Specify and configure communication interfaces between survey devices and system components. |
H6.1b Real-time data monitoring (A) | Evaluate performance of an integrated survey system against survey specifications using quality control methods and address deficiencies using troubleshooting methods. Identify type and sources of system errors and undertake system analysis. | |
E6.1c Survey data storage and transfer (A) |
| Export survey data to databases and analysis tools taking account of different data formats. Employ data storage strategies to facilitate survey data flow. Populate and maintain metadata associated with different data types and products. |
H6.2 Bathymetric data filtering and estimation | ||
H6.2 a Filtering and estimation of single beam data (A) |
| Identify and remove outliers and validate data cleaning and other decisions made in processing single beam data. Interpret and resolve systematic errors detected during data processing Perform time series analysis of data from multiple sensors to detect artefacts and other errors that may exist in a survey dataset. Specify additional coverage and associated survey parameters to resolve shortcomings in survey data. |
H6.2b Filtering and estimation of multi-beam data (A) |
| Identify and remove outliers and validate data cleaning and other decisions made in processing multi-beam data. Interpret and resolve systematic errors detected during data processing Perform time series analysis of data from multiple sensors to detect artefacts and other errors that may exist in a survey dataset. Assess processed data for coverage and quality, and specify remedial surveys. |
H6.2c Spatial data quality control (A) |
| Differentiate between relative and absolute uncertainties. Estimate and compare uncertainties through the use of different spatial and temporal datasets. Define procedures used to assess and accept or reject data. |
H6.2d Spatial data interpolation (I, A) |
| Choose an appropriate interpolation method and compute a surface from sparse survey measurements. (I) Select appropriate spatial data processing methods to create digital terrain models or gridded surfaces and contouring. (A) |
H6.2e Spatial data representation (I, A) |
| Apply estimation procedures to survey measurements to represent data according to survey product requirements. (I) Select optimal parameters for data representation. (A) |
3.7 H7: Management of Hydrographic Data
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H7.1 Data organization and presentation | ||
H7.1a Databases (I) |
| Explain the concepts of relational and spatial databases. Conceptualize, develop, and populate a spatial database to represent hydrographic survey elements and define relationships between those elements. |
H7.1b Marine GIS basics (B) |
| Identify the data types that might be used to represent features from the marine environment considering the attribute that might be associated with such features. Create a GIS project using marine spatial data. Perform spatial processing on marine data sets including datum and projection transformations. |
H7.2 Marine data sources and dissemination | ||
H7.2a MSDI (B) |
| Describe the role of hydrographic data in Marine Spatial Data Infrastructures. |
H7.2b Open access marine data (B) |
| Distinguish between types and sources of data as a measure of reliability and utility. |
H7.3 Spatial data integration and deliverables | ||
H7.3a Spatial data integration (I) |
| Integrate data from multiple sources and sensor types in the conduct of a multisensor survey. |
H7.3b Spatial data visualisation (A) |
| Evaluate and select the best visualization method to highlight features of interest and quality-control a hydrographic data set. |
H7.3c Deliverables (A) |
| Describe hydrographic deliverables and produce paper products as well as digital products in accordance with specifications and standards. Prepare a report on a hydrographic survey. |
3.8 H8: Legal Aspects
Topic/Element | Content | Learning outcomes |
---|---|---|
H8.1 Product liability | ||
H8.1a Responsibilities of the hydrographic surveyor (B, I) |
| Detail the role and responsibilities of the hydrographic surveyor as required under industrial standards and national/international legislation/conventions. (B) Identify the sources of ethical guidance and discuss ethical considerations when dealing in a professional capacity with client and contracts. (I) Discuss the potential liability of the hydrographic surveyor in common hydrographic endeavors. (I) |
H8.1b Contracts (I) |
| Develop the technical content of an invitation to tender. Analyze the risk and develop the technical content of a response that would include details and cost of necessary resources. Interpret contractual obligations in terms of survey planning, execution and deliverables. |
H8.2 Maritime zones | ||
H8.2a Delimitations (B) |
| Define the types of baselines under UNCLOS and how the territorial sea limit and other limits are projected from them, including the use of low tide elevations. Plan and specify hydrographic surveys to be utilized in the delimitation of baselines and maritime boundaries. Describe the legal operational constraints that apply within maritime zones. |
E8.2b Impact of surveys (I) |
| Specify appropriate procedures and limitations for use of surveying equipment in compliance with environmental laws and marine protected area regulations. |
4 CMFP: COMPLEX MULTIDISCIPLINARY FIELD PROJECT
Programmes must include a supervised and evaluated Complex Multidisciplinary Field Project with a minimum aggregate period of at least four weeks; see “GUIDELINES FOR THE IMPLEMENTATION OF THE STANDARDS OF COMPETENCE FOR HYDROGRAPHIC SURVEYORS AND NAUTICAL CARTOGRAPHERS”.
The Complex Multidisciplinary Field Project for Category “A” level shall comprise a comprehensive field survey incorporating different aspects of hydrography in a complex environment with varying sea-floor and oceanographic conditions.
Students should undertake:
Survey specification and planning;
Hydrographic and oceanographic measurements using a comprehensive suite of instruments;
Data processing, quality control and quality assurance;
Preparation of different type of product deliverables and reports.
NOTE The Complex Multidisciplinary Field Project does not include the practical exercises that form a part of the course modules syllabi and are designed to complement the theory component.