Frequency Steered Sonar Array 3D Imaging
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional frequency-steered sonar systems are limited to two-dimensional imaging, which can lead to annoyance for users as underwater targets move in and out of the imaging plane, and are unsuitable for mounting on boats due to their wide drag cross-section, lacking real-time imaging capabilities when stationary.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of a frequency-steered sonar array system with three-dimensional functionality, utilizing a marine sonar display device that interfaces with a frequency-steered sonar element to transmit and receive sonar beams, generating near real-time three-dimensional sonar images by calculating sonar data slices and displaying them simultaneously with historical sequences, allowing for better awareness of underwater structures and target tracking.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If traditional sidescan sonar systems are used, then imagery can be generated, but the system cannot provide real-time imagery and requires boat movement
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic beam steering by electronically controlling the frequency and phase of each transducer element in the array, allowing the sonar beams to be steered and focused in real-time without mechanical movement. This enables continuous real-time imaging while the system remains stationary or moves with the boat.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces mechanical scanning systems with electronic beam steering using frequency-steered transducer arrays. By using electronic phase and frequency control instead of mechanical movement, the system achieves real-time imaging capability without requiring physical scanning mechanisms or boat movement.
2Ease of operation
If conventional frequency-steered sonar systems are used, then real-time imagery can be provided, but only two-dimensional images are generated
Solution Approach 1:
The patent transitions from two-dimensional planar imaging to three-dimensional volumetric imaging by using multiple transducer arrays arranged in a three-dimensional configuration. By controlling the phase and frequency across multiple arrays, the system generates three-dimensional sonar images that provide complete spatial information about underwater targets, eliminating the problem of targets moving in and out of the imaging plane.
3Reliability
If frequency-steered sonar array systems are mounted on boats, then real-time imaging is possible, but the wide drag cross-section creates problems
Solution Approach 1:
The patent nests multiple transducer arrays within a compact housing structure, arranging the arrays in a space-efficient configuration that minimizes the external dimensions and drag cross-section. The arrays are positioned to overlap or interdigitate, allowing the system to maintain three-dimensional imaging capability while presenting a streamlined profile to the water flow.
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 solution provides continuous imaging of underwater targets without manual adjustment, improving sonar performance by enabling real-time, three-dimensional imaging and automatic target tracking, enhancing the fishing experience by maintaining focus on structures and targets despite system movement.
Implementation Method 1
the frequency steered sonar element may be configured to receive a transmit electronic signal... and transmit a corresponding array of sonar beams into a body of water
Implementation Method 2
When the frequency steered sonar element receives reflections of the sonar beams, it may generate a receive electronic signal
Implementation Method 3
When the frequency steered sonar element receives reflections of the sonar beams
Implementation Method 4
Frequency steered sonar array system with three-dimensional functionality
Data Source
AI summary
A transducer system comprises a first frequency steered transducer array element and a second frequency steered transducer array element that is spaced apart from the first frequency steered transducer array element. The system additionally includes a processing element in communication with the first and second frequency steered transducer array elements. The processing element is configured to receive a first receive electronic signal from the first frequency steered sonar array element, receive a second receive electronic signal from the second frequency steered array sonar element, compare a difference in amplitude between the first receive electronic signal and the second receive electronic signal to determine a cross-track position of an underwater target, and control a display to present an indication of the cross-track position of the underwater target.