Review of Object Detection Algorithms for Sonar Images based on Deep Learning

Background: Deep learning object detection algorithm is widely used in the field of image classification and has become an indispensable part. With the improvement of image classification accuracy, sonar image target detection algorithm based on deep learning has gradually become the focus of more and more people's research. Objective: This article aims to provide a summary and analysis of deep learning-based sonar image object detection algorithms, with the hope of offering insights for future research in the field of sonar target detection technology. Method: This paper systematically summarizes sonar image target detection algorithms based on deep learning. According to the method principle, the existing deep learning target detection algorithms are divided into four categories: target detection algorithm based on candidate region, deep target detection method based on regression, Anchor Free deep learning target detection algorithm, and search-based target detection and recognition algorithm. Then, the performance of algorithms based on COCO data sets is compared, and the standard sonar data sets and formats are introduced. Results: The sonar image object detection algorithm based on deep learning has made significant progress. The combination of deep learning and object detection methods has been applied to sonar images, resulting in the emergence of excellent performing algorithms. However, most algorithms are still in the developmental stage and face challenges in practical applications. Subsequently, several invention patents have been developed based on the aforementioned algorithms, including a feature extraction method for side-scan sonar images based on fully convolutional neural networks, an underwater sonar image target detection method based on improved YOLOv3-tiny, and more. Conclusion: Sonar image object detection technology based on deep learning has a wide range of application needs but also faces many difficulties and challenges, we still need to continue to learn and explore in future research, and we believe that we can make greater breakthroughs in the future.