Towed Sound Velocity Profiler for Accurate Vertical Water Profiling
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional underwater profiling systems are complex, expensive, and prone to entanglement, with a need for accurate conversion of raw acoustic remote sensing data from time-based to distance-based information.
Innovation Solution
A towed sensing apparatus with a sensor array, a weighted nose portion, and hydrodynamic surfaces for vertical movement, featuring a modular design with a coupling mechanism and apertures for water flow, allowing for automated depth control and reduced entanglement.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional profiling systems are used, then vertical water velocity profiles can be obtained, but the systems become complex, expensive, and prone to entanglement
Solution Approach 1:
The profiling system is divided into separate functional modules: a sensor array for measuring water velocity, a weighted nose portion for depth control, and hydrodynamic surfaces for stable vertical movement. This segmentation allows each component to perform its specific function independently, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining measurement precision
Solution Approach 2:
The patent extracts the essential function of velocity profiling from complex conventional systems by isolating the sensor array and coupling it with simple passive elements (weighted nose and hydrodynamic surfaces), eliminating unnecessary complexity while preserving the core measurement capability
2Measurement precision
If conventional profiling systems are used, then vertical water velocity profiles can be obtained, but the systems are expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The sensor array is designed as a removable, potentially disposable component that can be easily manufactured and replaced. This approach reduces the cost of the overall system by using simpler, cheaper materials for the sensor housing and coupling mechanism, while maintaining measurement accuracy through proper sensor selection
3Measurement precision
If conventional profiling systems are used, then vertical water velocity profiles can be obtained, but entanglement occurs with other towed sensors and fishing gear
Solution Approach 1:
The asymmetric configuration with the weighted nose portion at one end and the sensor array positioned vertically creates a streamlined profile that resists lateral movement and entanglement. The hydrodynamic surfaces are positioned to maintain stable vertical orientation, reducing the likelihood of interaction with surrounding objects
Solution Approach 2:
The system transitions from horizontal towing to vertical profiling by using the weighted nose portion and hydrodynamic surfaces to orient the sensor array vertically in the water column. This dimensional change allows the sensor to sample water velocity at different depths without horizontal displacement, eliminating entanglement with horizontally towed equipment
4Stability of the object's composition
If the sensor array is securely coupled to the receptacle, then measurement stability is improved, but the modular design for easy replacement is compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The coupling mechanism provides dynamic stability during operation through secure engagement features, while allowing easy release when needed. The mechanism adapts its holding force based on operational conditions, maintaining firm connection during profiling while enabling quick replacement when the sensor array needs to be changed or serviced
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 sensors, reducing entanglement, and optimizing cycle times, while being cost-effective and scalable.
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.