Sonar Transducer Housing with Integrated Multi-Configuration Mounting
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing sonar systems require multiple versions with different mounting configurations, leading to consumer confusion and increased inventory needs for dealers, as each mounting type often necessitates distinct mechanical or electrical features.
Innovation Solution
A sonar transducer assembly with a housing that integrates multiple mounting options, such as hull, transom, trolling motor, and through-hull mounting features, allowing for various mounting types without the need for separate fixtures or user exchanges.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If multiple versions of sonar systems with different mounting configurations are produced, then different mounting options are available, but consumer confusion and dealer inventory complexity increase
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer assembly is designed with multiple mounting features integrated into a single unit, enabling it to be mounted in multiple configurations (transom, hull, trolling motor, through-hull) without requiring separate versions. This universal design allows one product to serve multiple mounting purposes, eliminating the need for dealers to inventory multiple versions and reducing consumer confusion.
2Adaptability or versatility
If separate transducer units are sold for different mounting types, then each mounting type is optimized, but consumer understanding becomes confusing
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple mounting features that were previously distributed across separate transducer units into a single integrated transducer assembly. By merging transom mounting features, hull mounting features, trolling motor mounting features, and through-hull mounting features into one unit, the design maintains optimization for each mounting type while presenting a single unified product to consumers, thereby eliminating confusion.
3Device complexity
If a single transducer version is produced, then inventory is simplified, but mounting flexibility is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The transducer assembly incorporates multiple mounting features (transom mounting feature, hull mounting feature, trolling motor mounting feature, through-hull mounting feature) within a single unit, making it universally adaptable to different mounting configurations. This allows dealers to maintain simplified inventory with one product version while customers retain full mounting flexibility across various watercraft types.
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 flexible mounting options for sonar transducers, reducing consumer and dealer complexity while minimizing inventory needs by integrating multiple mounting features into a single transducer assembly, facilitating easy adaptation to different watercraft configurations.
Implementation Method 1
Sonar transducer elements convert electrical energy into sound or vibrations at a particular frequency
Implementation Method 2
The transducer receives the reflected sound (the 'sonar returns') and converts the sound energy into electrical energy
Data Source
AI summary
One or more transducer assemblies configured for multiple mounting options is provided. An example transducer assembly includes a housing configured to retain at least one sonar transducer. The housing includes a body having at least a top, a bottom, a first end, and a second end. The housing includes a first mounting feature integral to the housing and disposed proximate the first end, which is configured to mount the housing to a hull of watercraft to facilitate at least a first type of mounting. The housing also includes a second mounting feature integral to the housing and formed proximate the top of the body, which is configured to mount the housing to at least one of a watercraft or a trolling motor according to at least one second type of mounting. The at least one second type of mounting is different than the first type of mounting.