Sonar Transceiver Module Synchronization via Common Processor
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional sonar systems physically separate transmit and receive functions due to perceived crosstalk, power differences, and distinct control structures, leading to complex cable management and reduced performance.
Innovation Solution
A sonar transceiver module with a common input/output processor that synchronizes multiple transmitters and receivers using a single control signal, allowing for electronically steered beam patterns and reducing the need for separate transmit and receive functions.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If transmit and receive functions are physically separated in conventional sonar systems, then crosstalk between functions is reduced, but device complexity and cable management become more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines transmit and receive functions into a single integrated transceiver module. The common input/output processor handles both transmit control signals and receive control signals, while transmitters and receivers are coupled to the same processor through a unified interface. This integration eliminates the need for separate cable management systems for transmit and receive functions, reducing device complexity while maintaining functional separation through logical signal processing.
Solution Approach 2:
The common input/output processor serves multiple functions: it generates transmit control signals, processes receive control signals, and manages data flow between transmitters, receivers, and the beamformer. This multi-functional component replaces what were previously separate dedicated processors for transmit and receive operations, simplifying the overall system architecture while maintaining the ability to independently control each function.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate control structures are used for transmit and receive functions, then each function can be optimized independently, but the overall control system becomes more complex
Solution Approach 1:
The control signals are segmented into distinct types (transmit control signals and receive control signals) that are multiplexed onto a single common input/output processor. This allows independent optimization of transmit and receive control logic while using a unified physical interface. The processor can handle different control signal formats and processing requirements for each function simultaneously through time-division or channel-division multiplexing.
3Adaptability or versatility
If multiple separate transmitters and receivers are used, then beam steering capabilities are maintained, but synchronization becomes more difficult
Solution Approach 1:
The common input/output processor provides centralized timing and control for all transmitters and receivers, using feedback mechanisms to synchronize operations. The processor monitors the state of each transmitter and receiver and adjusts control signals to maintain precise synchronization across all elements, enabling accurate beam steering while managing the complexity of coordinating multiple devices through a single intelligent control point.
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AI summary
An acoustic method and apparatus for an acoustic system use a transceiver module, which can transmit to a transmit acoustic element of a transmit sonar array and receive from a receive acoustic element of a receive sonar array in accordance with a common transmit/receive control signal.