Trolling Motor Phased Array Transducer Integration
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing trolling motors lack effective integration of sonar transducer arrays for precise underwater imaging and navigation, limiting their ability to provide comprehensive 3D mapping and object localization in aquatic environments.
Innovation Solution
A trolling motor system incorporating a phased array transducer array within a nosecone or housing, which transmits and receives sonar beams to generate 3D images of underwater environments, using phase differences and relative positions of transducer elements to determine object angles and positions, and is protected by an EMF damper to reduce interference.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a transducer array is integrated into the trolling motor housing, then 3D imaging and object localization capabilities are enabled, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines the trolling motor housing with a transducer array integration, merging propulsion and sonar imaging functions into a single unified device. The transducer array is embedded within the motor housing structure, allowing the motor to serve dual purposes as both propulsion device and imaging platform.
Solution Approach 2:
The trolling motor is designed to perform multiple functions: propulsion through the propeller and 3D imaging through the integrated transducer array. This multi-functional design allows a single device to replace what would traditionally require separate propulsion and imaging equipment.
2Ease of operation
If electrical cables are routed through the rotating shaft, then power and signals can be transmitted to the motor, but cable protection and rotation compatibility become problematic
Solution Approach 1:
The patent utilizes a flexible cable management system within the shaft that allows electrical cables to bend and flex as the shaft rotates. The cable routing is designed with sufficient flexibility to accommodate rotational movement while maintaining electrical connectivity and protecting the cables from damage.
3Loss of information
If a phased array transducer system is implemented, then 360° imaging coverage is achieved, but electromagnetic interference increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces an electromagnetic shield as an intermediary component between the motor components and the transducer array. This shield acts as a barrier that blocks electromagnetic interference from the motor while allowing the sonar signals to pass through, thus protecting the sensitive transducer electronics.
4Reliability
If the transducer array is enclosed within the housing, then the motor remains waterproof, but transducer element accessibility for maintenance is reduced
Solution Approach 1:
The patent divides the housing into separable sections, with the transducer array housed in a removable module. This segmentation allows the transducer section to be detached from the main housing for maintenance or replacement while maintaining the waterproof seal when assembled, combining protection with serviceability.
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 360° imaging of underwater environments, providing accurate 3D positioning of objects and enhancing navigation and fishing precision through the integration of sonar data processing and display on a connected computing device.
Implementation Method 1
The at least one transducer array includes a phased array configured to transmit one or more sonar beams into an underwater environment
Implementation Method 2
at least one electrical cable that leads from the transducer array through the internal passage of the shaft to enable electrical signals to be transmitted between the transducer array and a computing device
Data Source
AI summary
Various implementations described herein are directed to a trolling device having a motor with a propeller coupled to the motor and a shaft configured to couple or mount the motor to a watercraft. The trolling device may include a housing encapsulating the motor and the housing may include a nosecone. A sonar transducer assembly may be incorporated within the housing or nosecone including a phased array configured to transmit sonar beams into an underwater environment.