Sonar Transducer Tilt Control for In-Water Beam Adjustment
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sonar systems require manual adjustment of the transducer elements for vertical direction changes, which is cumbersome and time-consuming.
Innovation Solution
A sonar assembly with an elongated shaft and transducer assembly that allows for both manual and electronic control of the transducer direction within horizontal and vertical planes, using an elongated member or directional actuator to rotate the transducer assembly without removing it from the water.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If manual adjustment of transducer elements is used for vertical direction changes, then the sonar system can be controlled, but the operation becomes cumbersome and time-consuming
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces a dynamic control mechanism that allows the transducer assembly to rotate within the water column without manual removal. The directional actuator enables continuous adjustment of the vertical transmission angle, transforming the static manual adjustment process into a dynamic automated control system that responds to user input in real-time.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the manual mechanical adjustment system with an electronically controlled actuation system. The directional actuator uses electrical signals to control the rotation of the transducer assembly, substituting the cumbersome manual mechanical process with an automated electromechanical system that reduces both effort and time.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the transducer assembly is removed from water for adjustment, then vertical direction can be changed, but operational efficiency decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The system enables dynamic adjustment of the transducer's vertical transmission angle while remaining submerged. The actuator allows the transducer to pivot between different vertical angles without removal, providing adaptability in sonar beam direction while maintaining continuous operational status and detection capability.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent introduces a directional actuator as an intermediary mechanism between the control system and the transducer assembly. This actuator serves as a mediator that enables vertical direction changes while the transducer remains in the water, eliminating the need for removal and re-mounting operations.
3Adaptability or versatility
If conventional horizontal plane control is used, then port and starboard direction can be adjusted, but vertical plane control is not available
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements a universal control system that handles both horizontal and vertical plane adjustments through a single integrated mechanism. The directional actuator provides multi-functional capability by controlling the transducer's orientation in three-dimensional space, combining what were previously separate horizontal and vertical control functions into one unified system.
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from static horizontal-only control to dynamic multi-plane control. The actuator enables the transducer to dynamically adjust its orientation in both horizontal and vertical planes, providing versatile directional control that adapts to various sonar imaging requirements without requiring separate control mechanisms.
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 rapid and convenient adjustment of sonar transmission direction, providing enhanced operational efficiency and flexibility in underwater imaging.
Implementation Method 1
Sonar transducer elements convert electrical energy into sound or vibrations. Sonar signals are transmitted into and through the water and reflected from encountered objects... The transducer elements receive the reflected sound as sonar returns and convert the sound energy into electrical energy
Implementation Method 2
Sonar signals are transmitted into and through the water and reflected from encountered objects (e.g., fish, bottom surface, underwater structure, etc.)
Implementation Method 3
Sonar signals are transmitted into and through the water and reflected from encountered objects
Implementation Method 4
The bottom end of the elongated member is operatively connected to the transducer assembly such that movement of the elongated member with respect to the elongated shaft rotates the transducer assembly within a vertical plane with respect to the watercraft
Data Source
AI summary
A sonar assembly for a watercraft, including an elongated shaft having a top end and a bottom end, and defining a bore that extends from the top end to the bottom end of the elongated shaft, a transducer assembly secured to the bottom end of the elongated shaft, an elongated member having a top end and a bottom end, the elongated member being disposed within the bore of the elongated shaft, the bottom end of the elongated member being operatively connected to the transducer assembly such that movement of the elongated member with respect to the elongated shaft rotates the transducer assembly within a vertical plane with respect to the watercraft.