Underwater Detection Calibration Using Virtual Reference Movement
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing underwater detection devices face challenges in accurately and efficiently calibrating their detection ranges due to time-related degradation of components, requiring manual or expensive mechanical movements of calibration balls, which are time-consuming and prone to inaccuracies.
Innovation Solution
The device divides the detection beam range into sections and adjusts the transmission beam direction to move a reference body virtually, performing calibration without physically moving the reference body, using a direction controlling module to ensure accurate calibration in a shorter time.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If the calibration ball is moved manually to all positions in the detection range, then calibration accuracy for each direction is improved, but the calibration time becomes excessively long and requires skilled operation
Solution Approach 1:
The patent replaces the mechanical movement of the calibration ball with electronic control of the transmission beam direction. The direction controlling module electronically steers the transmission beam to different directions without physically moving the calibration ball, thus substituting a mechanical system with an electronic control system that achieves the same calibration purpose much faster.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a virtual movement of the calibration ball by controlling the transmission beam to point at the stationary calibration ball from different directions. Instead of moving the physical calibration ball to multiple positions, the system copies the effect of having the calibration ball at multiple positions by electronically directing the beam, achieving calibration accuracy without the time penalty of physical movement.
2Measurement precision
If the calibration ball is moved by a dedicated machine to all positions, then calibration accuracy is maintained, but the equipment cost increases and calibration time remains long
Solution Approach 1:
The patent eliminates the need for expensive dedicated machines by using electronic beam steering control. The direction controlling module electronically adjusts the transmission beam direction to cover all detection ranges, replacing complex mechanical positioning systems with a simpler electronic control system that reduces equipment costs while maintaining calibration accuracy.
Solution Approach 2:
The system copies the effect of physical calibration ball movement through electronic beam direction control. By virtually moving the transmission beam to different directions while keeping the calibration ball stationary, the patent achieves the same calibration results without requiring expensive mechanical positioning equipment.
3Ease of operation
If a single calibration value is applied uniformly to all directions, then calibration operation is simplified, but detection accuracy deteriorates due to directional variations in reception level changes
Solution Approach 1:
The patent segments the detection range into multiple directional sections and performs separate calibration for each direction. The direction controlling module controls the transmission beam to point in different directions sequentially, and the calibration value is determined separately for each direction based on the reflection wave intensity received in that specific direction, ensuring accurate calibration for each directional sector.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent applies local quality by determining calibration values that are specific to each direction rather than using a single uniform value for all directions. The calibration process accounts for directional variations in reception level changes by measuring and calibrating each direction independently, ensuring that each local directional sector has its own optimized calibration value that reflects its specific characteristics.
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
This method enhances calibration accuracy and efficiency by allowing for precise calibration of all detection directions without physical movement of the reference body, reducing time and costs associated with manual or mechanical adjustments.
Implementation Method 1
transmits a sound wave underwater to detect an underwater condition based on a reflection wave of the transmitted sound wave
Data Source
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AI summary
An underwater detection device (10) includes a direction controlling module (15a) and a calibrating module (15b). The direction controlling module (15a) executes a directional control for sequentially changing a direction of a transmission beam (2) transmitted from a transducer (11) toward a reference body (4) for calibration. The calibrating module (15b) calibrates the underwater detection device (10) based on a reception signal outputted from the transducer (11) when the transducer (11) receives a reflection wave (2) from the reference body (4).