Dual-axis electromagnetic speed sensor with depth transducer integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater measurement systems require multiple sensors for transverse speed, longitudinal speed, depth, and other marine measurements, which increases space and cost requirements on vessels and introduces electromagnetic interference challenges.
Innovation Solution
A dual-axis electromagnetic speed sensor combined with an acoustic depth transducer, along with a controller to interleave speed and depth data, reduces the need for separate sensors and minimizes electromagnetic interference through preamplification and strategic electrode placement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate sensors are used for transverse speed, longitudinal speed, and depth measurements, then measurement functionality is comprehensive, but device complexity and space requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines transverse speed sensing, longitudinal speed sensing, and depth measurement capabilities into a single integrated sensor assembly. The sensor assembly includes a coil for generating magnetic fields, a first pair of electrodes for transverse speed measurement, a second pair of electrodes for longitudinal speed measurement, and a depth transducer for depth measurement, all housed together in one unit that attaches to the vessel's propeller shaft.
Solution Approach 2:
The sensor assembly is designed to perform multiple measurement functions simultaneously - measuring transverse speed, longitudinal speed, and depth - using a single integrated device. This multi-functional approach eliminates the need for separate sensors for each measurement type, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining comprehensive measurement capability.
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate sensors are installed on the vessel, then measurement coverage is complete, but space and cost requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges multiple measurement functions into a single sensor assembly that attaches to the propeller shaft. This integration consolidates what would traditionally require multiple separate sensors and mounting locations into one compact unit, significantly reducing the space required on the vessel while maintaining complete measurement coverage for speed and depth.
3Device complexity
If electromagnetic sensors are placed close together in a compact assembly, then space is reduced, but electromagnetic interference between sensors increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a non-conductive material as an intermediary barrier between the coil and the electrodes. This non-conductive material acts as an electromagnetic shield that prevents direct coupling and interference between the electromagnetic components, allowing the sensor assembly to maintain compact dimensions while minimizing electromagnetic interference between the speed sensing and depth sensing elements.
4Device complexity
If a single integrated sensor system is used, then space and cost are reduced, but measurement precision may be compromised due to interference
Solution Approach 1:
The non-conductive material serves as an intermediary that protects the measurement circuits from electromagnetic interference. By placing this shielding material between the coil and electrodes, the patent maintains signal integrity and measurement precision while achieving sensor integration and space reduction.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies different material properties to different regions of the sensor assembly - using non-conductive material specifically in areas where electromagnetic interference would be problematic, while maintaining conductive pathways where signals need to be transmitted. This localized application of material properties allows the system to achieve both integration and precision.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This multi-function sensor system effectively measures transverse and longitudinal speeds, depth, and inertial data in a single unit, reducing space and cost while minimizing interference, enabling real-time, accurate marine navigation without GPS lag.
Implementation Method 1
a coil; a dual-axis electrode subassembly positioned coaxially with the coil and having a first pair of electrodes spaced apart on a first axis and a second pair of electrodes spaced apart on a second axis at an angle (e.g., orthogonal) relative to the first axis; a driver circuit electrically coupled to the coil for driving the coil with a coil drive signal to produce an electromagnetic force vector in a direction perpendicular to a plane defined by the first and second pairs of electrodes
Implementation Method 2
The depth sensor may include a transducer and a transceiver configured to drive the transducer with a transducer drive signal and to receive echo signals from the transducer
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-function sensor system comprises a dual-axis electromagnetic speed sensor and a depth transducer to enable various underwater or marine measurements to be achieved in a single unit thus reducing the space required on a vessel and the cost of having such multiple functions.