On the Development of a Digital Twin for Underwater UXO Detection Using Magnetometer-Based Data in Application for the Training Set Generation for Machine Learning Models

Abstract

Scanning underwater areas using magnetometers in search of unexploded ordnance is a difficult challenge, where machine learning methods can find a significant application. However, this requires the creation of a dataset enabling the training of prediction models. Such a task is difficult and costly due to the limited availability of relevant data. To address this challenge in the article, we propose the use of numerical modeling to solve this task. The conducted experiments allow us to conclude that it is possible to obtain high compliance with the numerical model based on the finite element method with the results of physical tests. Additionally, the paper discusses the methodology of simplifying the computational model, allowing for an almost three times reduction in the calculation time without affecting model quality. The article also presents and discusses the methodology for generating a dataset for the discrimination of UXO/non-UXO objects. According to that methodology, a dataset is generated and described in detail including assumptions on objects considered as UXO and nonUXO.