Triangular Transducer Array for 3D Energy Source Localization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional detection systems are limited in determining the three-dimensional position of an energy source, often requiring multiple signals and lacking accuracy, especially when only a single signal is available.
Innovation Solution
A system and process using a triangular arrangement of transducers to determine the three-dimensional position of an energy source by calculating elapsed time differences, circle geometry, and angle measurements, allowing for precise localization even with a single signal.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If conventional detection systems (RADAR, SONAR) are used to detect source position, then two-dimensional position can be determined, but three-dimensional position cannot be accurately determined and multiple signals are required
Solution Approach 1:
The patent extends conventional two-dimensional detection to three-dimensional position determination by adding vertical dimension calculations. The system uses elapsed time differences between transducers to calculate not only horizontal position but also altitude or depth of the energy source, achieving full 3D localization from a single signal.
Solution Approach 2:
The detection system is divided into multiple independent transducers arranged in specific geometric patterns (triangular, tetrahedral configurations). Each transducer independently measures signal arrival time, and the processor segments the calculation into multiple case scenarios based on which transducers detect the signal, enabling 3D position determination from a single signal.
2Reliability
If multiple signals are required to locate source position, then position can be determined, but the system cannot operate with a single signal
Solution Approach 1:
The system changes the approach from requiring multiple signals to utilizing multiple parameters from a single signal. By measuring elapsed time differences across multiple transducers simultaneously receiving one signal, the system calculates 3D position, course line, and speed, achieving high reliability with single signal operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The processor acts as an intermediary that takes the raw elapsed time difference measurements from transducers and transforms them into accurate 3D position, course line, and speed information through geometric calculations and case scenario analysis, enabling precise position determination from single signal data.
3Measurement precision
If conventional systems use multiple signals for position determination, then position can be located, but accuracy is insufficient compared to single signal method
Solution Approach 1:
The system pre-establishes geometric relationships between transducers (triangular arrangements, baseline orientations) and pre-programmes case scenario logic. When a single signal is received, the processor immediately applies the appropriate pre-defined calculation method, achieving high accuracy without requiring multiple signals or extensive processing time.
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 accurate determination of the three-dimensional position, course line, and potentially the speed of an energy source using a single signal, improving upon existing technologies by enhancing positional accuracy and reducing the need for multiple signal inputs.
Implementation Method 1
determining by the processor, an elapsed time difference of receiving the energy signal by the two or more transducers
Data Source
AI summary
A system and process determine the 3-dimensional position, the course line and possibly the speed of an energy source. Embodiments use an antenna array system that includes receiver transducers positioned to form an equilateral triangle with a receiver transducer at each point of the triangle. Each transducer is independent, and there may be no electrical connection between each transducer in the antenna array. Each transducer may be connected directly to a computer for signal analysis to provide for case decision and display of the appropriate information and steps to follow to determine the appropriate action required by the computer operator. By detection of a single signal from a sound or light source, the 3-dimensional position and a course line of that signal source can be determined under certain circumstances.