Digital Hydrophone Signal Digitization and Noise Reduction
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Solution Overview
Problem
Underwater acoustical detection systems face challenges due to signal degradation from long cables, noise increase, and the weight and cost of numerous wires, as well as the harsh marine environment, which limits technological advancements and deployment efficiency.
Innovation Solution
Integrating a digital communication module within the acoustic sensor to minimize cable length, digitize signals, and use digital modulation and multiplexing techniques to reduce noise and wire count, allowing for lower quality cables and a smaller hull penetrator, thereby enhancing Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR) and reducing array weight and cost.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Length of stationary object
If long cables are used to connect acoustical detectors to electronics packages, then the detectors can be positioned at greater distances from the receiver, but the cable degrades the signal and increases noise
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies preliminary action by performing analog-to-digital conversion at the detector itself before the signal travels through the cable. The digital communication module converts the analog acoustic signal to digital format locally, so that only digital signals need to be transmitted through the cable, eliminating cable-induced signal degradation and noise
Solution Approach 2:
The patent substitutes mechanical/electrical signal transmission through long analog cables with digital signal transmission. By replacing the analog cable transmission system with a digital communication system, the patent eliminates the harmful effects of cable length on signal quality while maintaining the ability to connect detectors at various distances
2Ease of operation
If multiple separate wires are used to provide power, communicate outgoing signals, and incoming signals, then each function can be dedicated to its own wire, but the number of wires increases making the array expensive and heavy
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple separate wire functions into a single communication cable by using digital communication protocols. Power, data transmission, and control signals are all combined into one cable connection between the detector and the receiver, reducing the overall wire count and system weight while maintaining reliable signal transmission
Solution Approach 2:
The communication cable in the patent serves multiple functions simultaneously: it provides power to the detector, transmits digital acoustic data bidirectionally, and carries control signals. This multi-functional cable replaces what would traditionally require multiple separate wires, reducing weight and complexity
3Adaptability or versatility
If a large number of wires are used to connect detectors to the receiver, then all necessary signals can be transmitted, but a larger hull penetrator is needed increasing costs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple signal communication functions into a single digital communication cable, reducing the number of separate wire connections needed. This consolidation allows all acoustic data, control signals, and power to be transmitted through one cable, thereby reducing the hull penetrator size required
Data Source
AI summary
A digital underwater acoustic sensor system is disclosed. The system can include an acoustic sensor configured to detect an underwater acoustic signal and form an analog signal proportional to the underwater acoustic signal. The acoustic sensor can include an interior cavity. A digital communication module can be positioned within the interior cavity. The digital communication module comprises an amplifier configured to amplify the analog signal. An analog to digital converter is configured to convert the analog signal to a digital signal. A digital signal transmission module is configured to communicate the digital signal to a receiver.