Pitch-Adjustable TVG Wings for Layback and Cross-Track Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional transverse gradiometer (TVG) tow frames experience interference and accuracy issues due to short layback distances, and long layback distances result in data gaps, particularly in high cross water current conditions, exceeding regulatory cross-track separation limits.
Innovation Solution
A TVG towed apparatus with independently pitch-adjustable canard wings and a rear wing surface, allowing for controlled roll and yaw adjustments to maintain optimal layback distance and reduce cross-track separation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Ease of operation
If a short layback distance is used, then the cross-track separation is reduced, but the magnetic signature of the tow vessel induces interference and errors in the survey data
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies active control surfaces (elevons, rudders, and pitch-adjustable rear wing) that can dynamically adjust during towing to control the apparatus's orientation and position in the water. This dynamic adjustment allows the system to maintain optimal layback distance while reducing cross-track separation, resolving the contradiction between operational ease and measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent changes the physical parameters of the towing system by introducing adjustable wing surfaces that can modify the hydrodynamic characteristics of the apparatus. By adjusting the pitch and angle of the wings, the system can optimize its performance to achieve both reduced cross-track separation and improved survey data accuracy simultaneously.
2Measurement precision
If a long layback distance is used, then the survey accuracy is improved, but data gaps occur particularly in high cross water current conditions
Solution Approach 1:
The active control surfaces enable the apparatus to dynamically respond to water currents and maintain stable positioning. The elevons and rudders can adjust in real-time to counteract cross-water currents, ensuring continuous data collection without gaps while maintaining the improved survey accuracy that requires longer layback distance.
Solution Approach 2:
The control system uses feedback from sensors that monitor the apparatus's position and orientation in the water. This feedback allows the control surfaces to make real-time adjustments to maintain optimal positioning against currents, ensuring data continuity while preserving survey accuracy.
3Measurement precision
If a long layback distance is used, then the survey accuracy is improved, but the cross-track separation exceeds regulatory limits
Solution Approach 1:
The patent employs dynamically adjustable control surfaces that can modify the apparatus's hydrodynamic behavior in real-time. This allows the system to maintain longer layback distance for improved survey accuracy while actively controlling the cross-track separation to remain within regulatory limits through continuous adjustment of wing and rudder positions.
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
The system effectively reduces cross-track separation and improves survey accuracy by minimizing interference from the tow vessel's magnetic signature while adapting to varying water conditions, ensuring compliance with regulatory limits and enhancing operational safety.
Implementation Method 1
two or more wing surfaces for pitch control of the TVG towed apparatus and/or roll control of the TVG towed apparatus
Implementation Method 2
A magnetometer is a sensor device that measures magnetic field or magnetic dipole moment
Implementation Method 3
A magnetic gradiometer is a sensor device that can be used to measure the gradient of magnetic fields
Data Source
AI summary
Described herein are systems and apparatus for transverse gradiometer (TVG) acquisition using a towed platform. A first wing surface that is pitch-adjustable based on rotation about a leading edge of the first wing surface. A second wing surface that is pitch-adjustable based on rotation about a leading edge of the second wing surface, and wherein a pitch of the second wing surface is adjustable independently from a pitch of the first wing surface. Unlocking insights from Geo-Data, the present invention further relates to improvements in sustainability and environmental developments: together we create a safe and livable world.