Principles of Searching for and Recognition Underwater Drowned Human Bodies

The purpose of this article is to discuss the application of a scanning sonar for underwater body recovery. Based on theoritical considerations, the use of a scanning sonar can improve both total time consumed and target detection rate of body recovery rescue activities. A real case which incorporated this equipment into the rescue work illustrated that the movement of a diver, several suspected targets and the morphological features around the targets can be recognized. In addition, the dimensions, shape, amount and geographic locations can be identified for further considerations. It is concluded that the searching and identifying ability of the scanning sonar can be dramatically improved by the integratin into a ROV (remotely operated vehicle).