Multi-Modal Acoustic Imaging With Adaptive Sensor Array Selection
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing acoustic imaging devices face limitations in detecting and imaging both high and low frequency ranges due to sensor array configurations and calculation methods, requiring multiple equipment and expertise, leading to time- and cost-intensive inspections and misalignment issues when combined with other imaging technologies.
Innovation Solution
A system comprising multiple acoustic sensor arrays and a processor that selects arrays based on input parameters, generates acoustic image data through back-propagation, and combines with electromagnetic image data to align and display images accurately.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a single acoustic sensor array is optimized for a specific frequency range, then detection precision for that frequency range is improved, but the ability to detect other frequency ranges deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements multiple acoustic sensor arrays with different inter-sensor spacing configurations within a single device. Each array is optimized for specific frequency ranges (e.g., closely-spaced elements for ultrasonic frequencies, widely-spaced elements for audible frequencies), allowing the device to universally detect and image across the entire acoustic spectrum from 20 Hz to 50 kHz without requiring separate specialized equipment
Solution Approach 2:
The acoustic sensor array is segmented into multiple sub-arrays with distinct geometric configurations. Each sub-array segment handles specific frequency bands, and the system selectively activates appropriate segments based on the frequency characteristics of the acoustic signals being detected, thereby maintaining detection precision across varying frequency ranges
2Adaptability or versatility
If multiple acoustic sensor arrays are used to cover different frequency ranges, then frequency range coverage is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
Multiple acoustic sensor arrays with different spacing configurations are merged into a single integrated device housing. The arrays share common electronic components, power supply, and processing electronics, reducing overall system complexity compared to using separate independent devices for different frequency ranges
Solution Approach 2:
The system dynamically selects and activates specific sensor arrays based on the frequency characteristics of incoming acoustic signals. This dynamic adaptation allows the complex multi-array system to operate efficiently by engaging only the necessary sub-arrays for each detection task, managing complexity through intelligent control
3Measurement precision
If different calculation algorithms are used for different frequency ranges and distances, then imaging accuracy is improved, but ease of operation deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The system automatically performs acoustic scene analysis and selects appropriate back-propagation algorithms and sensor arrays without requiring user input. The processor autonomously determines the frequency range and distance characteristics of acoustic signals, then self-selects the optimal calculation method (e.g., near-field acoustic holography for close targets, beamforming for distant targets), making complex multi-algorithm systems as easy to operate as single-algorithm systems
4Adaptability or versatility
If manual selection of hardware and software is required for acoustic analysis, then adaptability to specific acoustic scenes is improved, but loss of time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-configures multiple sensor arrays and calculation algorithms in advance, each optimized for specific acoustic scenarios. When acoustic signals are detected, the system immediately matches the signal characteristics against pre-established parameters and activates the corresponding pre-configured array and algorithm, eliminating the time required for manual analysis and setup while maintaining optimal adaptability to different acoustic scenes
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 efficient detection and imaging of a wide frequency range without expert intervention, reducing inspection time and costs, and ensuring accurate alignment and localization of acoustic signals within combined image data.
Implementation Method 1
acoustic sensor elements that are configured to receive acoustic signals from an acoustic scene and output acoustic data based on the received acoustic signals
Implementation Method 2
The processor can be configured to perform a back-propagation to generate acoustic image data based on the acoustic data from the selected acoustic sensor array
Data Source
AI summary
Systems and methods directed toward acoustic analysis can include a plurality of acoustic sensor arrays, each including a plurality of acoustic sensor elements, and a processor in communication with the plurality of acoustic sensor arrays. The processor can be configured to select one or more of the plurality of acoustic sensor arrays based on one or more input parameters, and generate acoustic image data representative of an acoustic scene based on received acoustic data from the selected one or more acoustic sensor arrays. Such input parameters can include distance information and/or frequency information. Different acoustic sensor arrays can share acoustic sensor elements in common or can be entirely separate from one another. Acoustic image data can be combined with electromagnetic image data from an electromagnetic imaging tool to generate a display image.