Towed Velocity Profiler With Hydrodynamic Depth Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional underwater profiling systems are complex, expensive, and prone to entanglement, failing to accurately convert raw acoustic remote sensing data from time-based to distance-based information for geospatial imaging and geohazard mapping.
Innovation Solution
A towed sensing apparatus with a sensor array, weighted nose portion, and hydrodynamic surfaces that convert horizontal tow force into vertical downward movement, featuring a modular design with hydrodynamic surfaces and stabilizing fins to maintain vertical orientation and reduce entanglement, coupled with automated depth control for precise data collection.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If conventional profiling systems are used, then vertical water velocity profiles can be obtained, but the systems are complex, expensive, and prone to entanglement
Solution Approach 1:
The system is divided into separate functional components: a weighted nose portion for depth control, a sensor array for velocity measurement, and a towing mechanism. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity and entanglement risk
Solution Approach 2:
The invention extracts the essential function of velocity profiling from complex conventional systems, retaining only the critical elements (weighted nose, sensor array, towing mechanism) needed to achieve accurate profiling while eliminating unnecessary complexity
2Measurement precision
If the towed sensing apparatus is deployed deeper, then more comprehensive water column data is collected, but the risk of contact with the seafloor increases
Solution Approach 1:
The system incorporates depth monitoring and automated tether control that provides feedback on the apparatus's vertical position. When the apparatus approaches a predetermined depth threshold, the system automatically responds by stopping tether deployment, preventing seafloor contact while maintaining measurement accuracy
Solution Approach 2:
The weighted nose portion is designed with predetermined weight to ensure the apparatus descends to the appropriate depth automatically, and the tether length is pre-calculated based on water depth measurements to prevent over-deployment and seafloor contact
3Stability of the object's composition
If the sensor array is securely coupled to the housing, then measurement stability is improved, but the modular design for easy replacement is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism transitions from a static permanent connection to a dynamic removable connection. The sensor array can be securely coupled during operation for stability, then easily decoupled for replacement or maintenance, adapting the connection strength to the operational requirements
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
Enhances data accuracy and collection efficiency by minimizing pressure changes at the sensor location, reducing entanglement, and optimizing cycle times, while being cost-effective and scalable for various water depths.
Implementation Method 1
a weighted nose portion coupled to the sensor housing portion, wherein a first end of the towed sensing apparatus that includes at least the weighted nose portion has a greater mass than a second end of the towed sensing apparatus opposite from the first end
Implementation Method 2
one or more of hydrodynamic surfaces extending radially from the towed sensing apparatus, each hydrodynamic surface of the one or more hydrodynamic surfaces arranged to exert a respective force during subsurface deployment of the towed sensing apparatus
Implementation Method 3
a sensor array, the sensor array including one or more sound velocity sensors for determining vertical water column profile information
Data Source
AI summary
Disclosed herein is a towed sensing apparatus for underwater profiling. The apparatus includes a sensor array including one or more sound velocity sensors for determining vertical water column profile information. A sensor housing portion can include a receptacle for receiving the sensor array, the receptacle including one or more apertures for providing water flow to the sensor array during subsurface deployment of the apparatus. A coupling mechanism can be provided to removably couple the sensor array within the receptacle by coupling the sensor array to an inner surface of the receptacle. The weighted nose portion can be coupled to the sensor housing portion and can have a greater mass than a second end of the towed sensing apparatus opposite from the first end. One or more hydrodynamic surfaces can extend radially from the towed sensing apparatus and can be arranged to exert a respective force when the apparatus is deployed.