Fish Detection Transducer with Independent Rotation and Solar Power

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing fish detection systems are limited by their dependence on trolling motors, which can impede operation and reduce effectiveness, especially when fish locations differ from the motor's direction or when the motor interferes with the transducer.

Innovation Solution

A fish detection system with a transducer assembly that can operate independently of the trolling motor, featuring a directional member and light assembly for adjustable field of view, a rechargeable battery with solar recharging, and a wireless remote control for motor operation, allowing 360° rotation and self-powered operation.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Device complexity

If the transducer assembly is fixedly attached to and operated with the trolling motor, then the system structure is simplified, but the fish detection effectiveness is reduced due to motor interference and limited directional coverage

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvesystem structureVSAvoidfish detection effectiveness
Core Design Contradiction:
Device complexityVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The system is divided into independent functional modules: the transducer assembly with its own motor and battery pack is separated from the trolling motor, allowing each component to operate independently. This segmentation enables the transducer to rotate and scan without being constrained by the trolling motor's position or interference

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The transducer assembly is designed as a universal platform that can be mounted on various boat types and trolling motor configurations. The independent motor and battery pack system allows the transducer to perform fish detection functions regardless of the trolling motor's operational state, providing multi-functional capability

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

2Ease of manufacture

If the transducer assembly is fixedly attached to the trolling motor, then installation is simplified, but the field of view is limited and cannot cover areas different from the motor's direction

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveinstallation simplicityVSAvoidfield of view coverage
Core Design Contradiction:
Ease of manufactureVSAdaptability or versatility

Solution Approach 1:

The transducer assembly incorporates an independent rotation motor that enables dynamic scanning across a wide arc (at least 180 degrees). This dynamic capability allows the transducer to actively search and cover various water areas independently of the trolling motor's fixed direction, greatly enhancing field of view coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The mounting system is designed as a separate, adaptable interface that can be configured for different boat types and trolling motor configurations. This segmented mounting approach maintains installation simplicity while allowing the transducer assembly to be positioned optimally for maximum coverage

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

3Adaptability or versatility

If the transducer assembly operates independently with its own battery pack, then power independence is achieved, but the system weight increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvepower independenceVSAvoidsystem weight
Core Design Contradiction:
Adaptability or versatilityVSWeight of moving object

Solution Approach 1:

The transducer assembly includes its own rechargeable battery pack and rotation motor, making it a self-contained unit that operates independently of the boat's electrical system and trolling motor. This self-service capability provides true power independence and operational flexibility

Inventive Principle:
Principle #25Self-service

Solution Approach 2:

The system allows for configurable battery capacity and rotation motor specifications to balance weight against operational requirements. Users can select appropriate battery sizes and motor powers based on specific fishing conditions and duration needs, optimizing the weight-performance ratio

Inventive Principle:
Principle #35Parameter changes

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

Enables independent control and enhanced detection capabilities, reducing interference from trolling motors and providing accurate fish location information without reliance on external power sources, simplifying installation and compatibility with various boat systems.

Implementation Method 1

the transducer emits signal waves into the water, and portions of the waves reflect off of objects and travel back to the transducer. The reflected waves are recorded to determine the location of the fish

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectSound wave reflection: Reflection

Implementation Method 2

a solar panel for recharging the battery

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPhotovoltaic effect: Photovoltaic Effect

Data Source

PatentUS20240159900A1Enhanced fish detection system
Publication Date: 2024.05.16 ROLLER MICHAEL L
  • US20240159900A1 patent drawing
  • US20240159900A1 patent drawing
  • US20240159900A1 patent drawing

AI summary

A fish detection system including a transducer configured to provide image information for underwater locations, a directional member, and a light assembly. The directional member is member configured to move in conjunction with the transducer, the orientation of the directional member corresponding to a direction of the adjustable field of view of the transducer. The light assembly is configured to illuminate the directional member.