Underwater UXO Magnetic Detection Array for Simultaneous Localization

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Solution Overview

Problem

Current magnetism detection methods for underwater unexploded ordnances are inefficient as they require manual operation by a tugboat or diver, limiting the ability to simultaneously detect magnetic fields across multiple locations effectively.

Innovation Solution

A magnetism detection apparatus comprising an array of detection assemblies arranged in a plane, connected to a central control device that processes magnetic field signals and coordinate information to determine the location of the maximum signal, improving efficiency and accuracy by enabling simultaneous detection and processing of magnetic fields across different locations.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Productivity

If a magnetic field measuring instrument is carried by a tugboat or brought into water with a diver, then the magnetic field can be measured at different locations, but the working efficiency is very low

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworking efficiencyVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The detection system is divided into multiple independent detection assemblies arranged in an array, where each assembly can independently detect magnetic fields at its location. This segmentation allows simultaneous detection across multiple locations, dramatically improving productivity compared to single-point manual detection while maintaining manageable system complexity through modular design

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The patent replaces the mechanical/manual detection system (tugboat or diver operations) with an automated array of detection assemblies that can be deployed and operated systematically. This substitution eliminates the need for manual positioning and operation, significantly enhancing working efficiency while the automated control system manages the complexity

Inventive Principle:
Principle #28Mechanics substitution (Replace mechanical system)

2Productivity

If an array of detection assemblies is used to simultaneously detect magnetic fields at different locations, then the working efficiency is improved, but the device complexity increases

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveworking efficiencyVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

Each detection assembly in the array is designed as a universal module capable of performing the same detection function independently. This multi-functionality approach allows the system to achieve high productivity through parallel operations while managing complexity by using standardized, interchangeable components rather than custom-designed complex systems

Inventive Principle:
Principle #6Universality (Multi-functionality)

Solution Approach 2:

Multiple detection assemblies are combined into a coordinated array system with centralized control. The merging of individual detection units into a unified system enables simultaneous multi-location detection (improving productivity) while the integrated control architecture manages the overall system complexity rather than allowing it to scale linearly with the number of assemblies

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

3Measurement precision

If manual detection methods are used by tugboat or diver, then the equipment complexity is relatively simple, but the detection accuracy and localization precision are limited

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedetection accuracyVSAvoiddetection system complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
Measurement precisionVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The patent transitions from single-point detection to multi-point spatial array detection, adding the dimension of spatial distribution to the measurement system. This dimensional change enables not only more accurate magnetic field mapping but also precise localization of unexploded ordnance by analyzing magnetic field patterns across the array, significantly improving measurement precision while the systematic array management keeps device complexity controllable

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

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 apparatus enhances working efficiency and detection accuracy by allowing simultaneous detection of magnetic fields across multiple locations, improving stability and resistance to water flow, while maintaining reliable communication and accurate localization of underwater objects.

Implementation Method 1

The array of detection assemblies is configured to detect magnetic fields and output magnetic field signals corresponding to locations of the detection assemblies

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMagnetic field detection: Magnetic Field

Data Source

PatentUS11768309B2Magnetism detection apparatus for underwater unexploded ordnance and method for controlling the same
Publication Date: 2023.09.26 TSINGHUA UNIVERSITY
  • US11768309B2 patent drawing
  • US11768309B2 patent drawing
  • US11768309B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A magnetism detection apparatus includes a detection device, at least one first locating device, and a central control device. The detection device includes an array of detection assemblies arranged in a same plane. The array of detection assemblies is configured to detect magnetic fields and output magnetic field signals corresponding to locations of the detection assemblies. The at least one first locating device is disposed on one of the detection assemblies to locate this detection assembly and output a first coordinate signal corresponding to this detection assembly. The central control device is communicatively and respectively connected to each of the detection assemblies and the at least one first locating device, and configured to process the magnetic field signals and the first coordinate signal.