NZ763333B2 - Sonar transducer having geometric elements - Google Patents
Sonar transducer having geometric elementsInfo
- Publication number
- NZ763333B2 NZ763333B2 NZ763333A NZ76333320A NZ763333B2 NZ 763333 B2 NZ763333 B2 NZ 763333B2 NZ 763333 A NZ763333 A NZ 763333A NZ 76333320 A NZ76333320 A NZ 76333320A NZ 763333 B2 NZ763333 B2 NZ 763333B2
- Authority
- NZ
- New Zealand
- Prior art keywords
- sonar
- transducer
- receive
- transducer elements
- transmit
- Prior art date
Links
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Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/003—Bistatic sonar systems; Multistatic sonar systems
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/02—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems using reflection of acoustic waves
- G01S15/06—Systems determining the position data of a target
- G01S15/46—Indirect determination of position data
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/02—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems using reflection of acoustic waves
- G01S15/50—Systems of measurement, based on relative movement of the target
- G01S15/52—Discriminating between fixed and moving objects or between objects moving at different speeds
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/88—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications
- G01S15/96—Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for locating fish
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S15/00—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems
- G01S15/02—Systems using the reflection or reradiation of acoustic waves, e.g. sonar systems using reflection of acoustic waves
- G01S15/06—Systems determining the position data of a target
- G01S15/46—Indirect determination of position data
- G01S2015/465—Indirect determination of position data by Trilateration, i.e. two transducers determine separately the distance to a target, whereby with the knowledge of the baseline length, i.e. the distance between the transducers, the position data of the target is determined
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S7/00—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00
- G01S7/52—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00
- G01S7/521—Constructional features
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S7/00—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00
- G01S7/52—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00
- G01S7/539—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00 using analysis of echo signal for target characterisation; Target signature; Target cross-section
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S7/00—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00
- G01S7/52—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00
- G01S7/54—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00 with receivers spaced apart
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S7/00—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00
- G01S7/52—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00
- G01S7/56—Display arrangements
- G01S7/62—Cathode-ray tube displays
- G01S7/6218—Cathode-ray tube displays providing two-dimensional coordinated display of distance and direction
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G01—MEASURING; TESTING
- G01S—RADIO DIRECTION-FINDING; RADIO NAVIGATION; DETERMINING DISTANCE OR VELOCITY BY USE OF RADIO WAVES; LOCATING OR PRESENCE-DETECTING BY USE OF THE REFLECTION OR RERADIATION OF RADIO WAVES; ANALOGOUS ARRANGEMENTS USING OTHER WAVES
- G01S7/00—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00
- G01S7/52—Details of systems according to groups G01S13/00, G01S15/00, G01S17/00 of systems according to group G01S15/00
- G01S7/56—Display arrangements
- G01S7/62—Cathode-ray tube displays
- G01S7/6281—Composite displays, e.g. split-screen, multiple images
Abstract
system is provided for imaging an underwater environment. The system includes a transducer assembly with at least one transmit transducer element and an array of receive transducer elements. Each receive transducer element is configured to receive sonar returns and form sonar return data. A sonar signal processor is configured to receive the sonar return data from each receive transducer element and generate sonar image data. The sonar return data from all of the receive transducer elements may be summed and used to form a high-definition 1D (e.g., time-based) sonar image. The sonar return data from only a subgroup may be summed and used to form a lower-definition 1D sonar image. In some systems, an array of series-connected transmit transducer elements can be used. The orientation of the emitting faces of the array may vary slightly to mimic a curved surface for increased beam coverage. r signal processor is configured to receive the sonar return data from each receive transducer element and generate sonar image data. The sonar return data from all of the receive transducer elements may be summed and used to form a high-definition 1D (e.g., time-based) sonar image. The sonar return data from only a subgroup may be summed and used to form a lower-definition 1D sonar image. In some systems, an array of series-connected transmit transducer elements can be used. The orientation of the emitting faces of the array may vary slightly to mimic a curved surface for increased beam coverage.
Description
SONAR TRANSDUCER HAVING GEOMETRIC ELEMENTS
This application claims priority from United States patent ation 16/382,639, filed
12 April 2019, the entire content of which is incorporated by reference.
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention relate generally to sonar ucer operation, and
more particularly, to systems and apparatuses for sonar transducer operation utilizing geometric
ucer elements.
OUND OF THE INVENTION
Sonar (SOund tion And Ranging) has long been used to detect waterborne or
underwater objects. For example, sonar devices may be used to determine depth and bottom
topography, detect fish, locate wreckage, etc. In this regard, due to the extreme limits to visibility
underwater, sonar is typically the most accurate way to locate objects underwater. Sonar
transducer elements, or simply transducers, convert electrical energy into sound or vibrations at a
particular ncy. A sonar sound beam (e.g., one or more sonar signals) is transmitted into
and through the water and is reflected from s it encounters. The transducer receives the
reflected sound (the “sonar returns”) and ts the sound energy into electrical . Based
on the known speed of sound, it is possible to determine the distance to and/or location of the
orne or underwater objects. The sonar return signals can also be processed to be displayed
on a display device, giving the user a “picture” (or image) of the underwater environment.
The shape of the emitting face of a transducer element may dictate the beam shape of the
sonar signals emitted into the underwater environment. For example, an elongated emitting face
may generate a fan-shaped beam n and a transducer element with a square or circular
shaped emitting face may have a more l beam shape. Each beam shape is associated with
distinct characteristics in sonar images resulting therefrom, such as the data resolution for
underwater structures, fish, or other underwater objects.
It is an object of at least preferred embodiments of the present invention to address
potential disadvantages in traditional sonar devices. An additional or alternative object is to at
least provide the public with a useful choice.
BRIEF Y OF THE INVENTION
In some sonar transducer arrangements, a single ucer element may emit one or
more sonar signals into the body of water. The resulting sonar s are then received by one or
more second receiving elements and/or the itting element. As mentioned above, the shape
of the emitting face of the transducer element may determine the shape of the sonar beam
emitted therefrom. In applications using an ted (e.g., linear, elongated rectangle, or the
like) transducer element produces a fan-shaped beam, the resulting sonar images may have high
structural detail, but relatively low detail for moving objects including fish, bait, or the like. As
the length of the emitting face with respect to the width becomes closer to a 1:1 ratio, the shape
of the sonar beam shifts from being fan-shaped to a more cone-shape, resulting in reduced
structural detail, but an increase in fish detail (e.g., ing desirable “fish arches”). As such,
using a single transmitting crystal can limit the resulting image in desirability, such as by
ing high structural detail with low fish detail, mediocre structural and fish , or high
fish detail and low structural .
In an example embodiment, a sonar transducer is provided that includes two itting
transducer elements and one receiving transducer element. The first transmitting transducer
t is configured to provide high structural detail, while the second transmitting transducer
element is configured to provide high fish detail. Particularly, the length-to-width ratio of the
emitting face of the first transducer element is larger than the length-to-width ratio of the
emitting face of the second transducer t. In some embodiments, to accommodate
receiving sonar returns from both transmitting transducer elements, the transmitting transducer
elements may emit at alternating times, different frequencies, or the like.
Since sonar returns are received with both high detail structural data and high detail fish
data, sonar images may be generated with either the high detail structure data or the high detail
fish data, which may be toggled as needed, shown together (such as in split screen), or blended to
generate a new sonar image ing both the high detail structural data and high detail fish
data. In some embodiments, the blend ratio may be set at a predetermined optimal blend ratio.
However, in some embodiments, the blend ratio may be dynamically adjusted by the user to
render the desired level of detail based on application or user preference.
Sonar transducers are typically configured to be directional based, such as sidescan,
forwardscan, downscan, or the like. As such, sonar transducers are generally housed in
assemblies configured for the particular scan direction and mounting type. In this regard, in
some embodiments, a transducer assembly may be provided with directional ng
portions, such as including both forwardscan and downscan sonar transducer arrangements. By
providing both forwardscan and downscan ucer arrangements in a common transducer
assembly, the user may shift between forwardscan and an as desired, based on movement
of a watercraft, operation of the trolling motor or engine, or the like. onally or
alternatively, the sonar image data associated with the dscan may be merged with the
downscan to provide a combined or continuous sonar image. In an example embodiment, the
forwardscan portion may be curved to limit blind spots in the sonar image between the
forwardscan portion of the sonar image and the downscan portion of the sonar image.
In some embodiments, an array of receive transducer elements may be used to form
traditional sonar images, such as one-dimensional (1D) (e.g., time-based) sonar images. For
e, a sonar signal processor may be configured to sum the sonar return data received from
one or more individual receive transducer elements of the receive array. In this regard,
ing on which receive transducer elements are utilized, different levels of definition of the
resulting sonar image can be obtained. For example, in the situation where the array includes a
large ratio of length to width (e.g., 5:1), then summing the sonar return data from all or most of
the individual receive transducer ts s in a 1D sonar image with relatively highdefinition
(e.g., which may be equivalent to a sonar image formed using a linear (e.g.,
rectangular-shaped) transducer element). Along similar lines, summing the sonar return data
from a small subgroup of individual receive transducer ts (e.g., 1-4 elements) results in a
1D sonar image with vely lower definition (e.g., which may be equivalent to a sonar image
formed using a conical (e.g., circular-shaped) transducer element). Variations of summed sonar
return data and relative positioning of the selected receive transducer elements to product
different sonar images are, thus, contemplated.
In some embodiments, an array of -connected transmit transducer ts can be
used to form sonar signal within the water. In this regard, the “effective” emitting face of an
array of transducer elements electrically connected in series can determine the resulting beam
shape – thereby enabling different types of beam coverage depending on the shapes of the
transducer elements and mounting configurations. For example, the orientation of the emitting
faces of each element in the array may slightly vary to mimic a curved surface, which may
provide for increased beam coverage. In this regard, in some embodiments, the effective curved
surface for the ng face of the array may cause a widened beam coverage in the
corresponding direction of the resultant beam – which may be desirable.
In an example ment, a system for imaging an underwater environment of a body
of water is provided. The system comprises a transducer ly comprising at least one
transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into the underwater
environment, wherein the at least one transmit transducer comprises an array of a plurality of
transmit transducer elements electrically connected in , wherein each of the plurality of
transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the plurality of
transmit transducer elements are d with respect to each other such that a respective
ng face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a
different direction. The transducer assembly further comprises an array of a plurality of receive
transducer elements. The array of the plurality of receive ucer elements defines a length
and a width with a ratio of the length to the width being at least 3:1. Each of the plurality of
receive transducer elements is ured to receive sonar s from the sonar s and
form corresponding sonar return data. The system further es a sonar signal processor
configured to receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer
ts of the array; sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of receive transducer
elements to form summed sonar return data; and generate sonar image data based on the summed
sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater
environment. The system further includes a marine electronic device comprising a user ace
comprising a display, a marine electronic device processor, and a memory including computer
program code. The computer program code is configured to, with the marine electronic device
processor, cause the marine electronic device to receive the sonar image data from the sonar
signal processor; and cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data,
wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a watercraft such that the array
of the plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, with the length extending
in a first direction that runs generally el with a centerline of the watercraft and the width
extending in a second ion running from a port side of the watercraft to a starboard side of
the watercraft.
In some embodiments, the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a
watercraft such that the array of e transducer elements is oriented downwardly. The sonar
image forms a downward sonar image representing a one-dimensional image of the underwater
environment beneath the watercraft.
In some embodiments, the array of the plurality of e transducer elements comprises
at least 8 receive ucer elements. In some ments, the sonar signal processor is further
configured to sum the sonar return data from a up of the plurality of receive transducer
elements to form second summed sonar return data. The subgroup of the plurality of receive
transducer elements is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements. The sonar
signal processor is further configured to generate second sonar image data based on the second
summed sonar return data. The second sonar image data forms a second sonar image
representing the underwater environment.
In some embodiments, the subgroup of the ity of receive transducer elements
includes at least two receive transducer elements that are located generally in the center of the
array of receive ucer elements.
In some embodiments, the computer program code is further configured to, with the
marine electronic device sor, cause the marine electronic device to enable selection by a
user of at least the sonar image and the second sonar image; cause, in response to receiving a
selection of the sonar image, presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data; and
cause, in response to receiving a ion of the second sonar image, presentation of the second
sonar image, based on the second sonar image data.
In some embodiments, the transducer assembly is configured to be d to a
watercraft such that the array of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly. The sonar
image forms a downward sonar image representing a one-dimensional image of the underwater
environment beneath the watercraft. The second sonar image forms a second downward sonar
image representing a one-dimensional image of the ater environment beneath the
watercraft. The definition of objects within the sonar image is greater than the definition of
objects within the second sonar image.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor comprises a multiplexer such that sonar
return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements can be selected dually
for summation.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor is further configured to s the
sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive ucer elements to form twodimensional
(2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data; and generate 2D or 3D sonar
image data based on the 2D or 3D sonar return data, wherein the 2D or 3D sonar image data
forms a 2D or 3D sonar image representing the underwater environment. In some embodiments,
the computer program code is further configured to, with the marine electronic device processor,
cause the marine electronic device to enable selection by a user of at least the sonar image and
the 2D or 3D sonar image; cause, in response to receiving a selection of the sonar image,
presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data; and cause, in response to
receiving a selection of the 2D or 3D sonar image, tation of the 2D or 3D sonar image,
based on the 2D or 3D sonar image data.
In some embodiments, the at least one transmit transducer ses one of a rectangular
transducer t, a conical transducer element, a square transducer element, or an array of
transducer elements.
In some embodiments, the at least one transmit transducer comprises an array of a
plurality of transmit transducer elements electrically connected in series. Each of the plurality of
transmit transducer ts comprises an emitting face. At least two of the plurality of transmit
transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a respective emitting face
of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer ts is oriented in a different
direction.
In another example embodiment, a ucer assembly is provided. The ucer
assembly comprises at least one transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals
into an underwater nment, wherein the at least one transmit transducer comprises an array
of a plurality of transmit transducer elements electrically ted in series, wherein each of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a
respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements is
ed in a ent direction. The transducer assembly comprises an array of a plurality of
e transducer elements. The array of the ity of receive transducer elements defines a
length and a width with a ratio of the length to the width being at least 3:1. Each of the plurality
of receive transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and
form corresponding sonar return data. The transducer assembly further comprises a sonar signal
processor configured to: receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive
transducer elements of the array; sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of receive
transducer elements to form summed sonar return data; and generate sonar image data based on
the summed sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image representing
the underwater environment, wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a
watercraft such that the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented
downwardly, with the length extending in a first direction that runs generally el with a
centerline of the watercraft and the width extending in a second direction running from a port
side of the watercraft to a starboard side of the watercraft.
In some embodiments, the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements comprises
at least 8 receive transducer elements. In some embodiments, the sonar signal sor is
further ured to sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of receive
transducer elements to form second summed sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the
plurality of receive transducer elements is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer
elements. The sonar signal processor is further configured to generate second sonar image data
based on the second summed sonar return data, wherein the second sonar image data forms a
second sonar image representing the underwater environment. In some embodiments, the
subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer elements includes at least two receive transducer
elements that are located lly in the center of the array of receive transducer elements.
In yet r example ment, a system for imaging an underwater environment is
ed. The system comprises a transducer assembly comprising at least one it
transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into the underwater environment,
wherein the at least one transmit transducer ses an array of a ity of transmit
transducer elements ically connected in series, wherein each of the plurality of transmit
ucer ts comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the plurality of transmit
transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a respective emitting face
of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer ts is oriented in a different
direction. The system further includes an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements,
wherein the array of the plurality of receive transducer ts defines a length and a width
with a ratio of the length to the width being at least 3:1. Each of the plurality of receive
transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form
corresponding sonar return data. The system further includes a sonar signal processor configured
to e the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive ucer ts of the
array; sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer elements
to form summed sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer
ts is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements; and generate sonar image
data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image
representing the ater environment. The system further includes a marine electronic
device comprising a user interface comprising a display, a marine electronic device processor,
and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code is configured to,
with the marine electronic device processor, cause the marine onic device to receive the
sonar image data from the sonar signal processor; and cause presentation of the sonar image,
based on the sonar image data, wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a
raft such that the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented
downwardly, with the length extending in a first direction that runs generally parallel with a
centerline of the watercraft and the width extending in a second direction g from a port
side of the watercraft to a starboard side of the watercraft.
In some embodiments, the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements comprises
at least 8 e transducer elements, wherein the subgroup of the ity of receive transducer
ts comprises at least two receive transducer elements.
In some embodiments, the subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer ts
includes at least two receive transducer elements that are located generally in the center of the
array of receive transducer elements.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor is further configured to sum the sonar
return data from all of the ity of receive transducer elements to form second summed sonar
return data; and generate second sonar image data based on the second summed sonar return
data, wherein the second sonar image data forms a second sonar image representing the
underwater environment. In some embodiments, the computer program code is r
configured to, with the marine electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to
enable selection by a user of at least the sonar image and the second sonar image; cause, in
response to receiving a selection of the sonar image, presentation of the sonar image, based on
the sonar image data; and cause, in response to receiving a selection of the second sonar image,
presentation of the second sonar image, based on the second sonar image data.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor is further configured to s the
sonar return data from each of the ity of receive transducer elements to form twodimensional
(2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data; and generate 2D or 3D sonar
image data based on the 2D or 3D sonar return data, n the 2D or 3D sonar image data
forms a 2D or 3D sonar image representing the underwater environment. In some ments,
the computer program code is further configured to, with the marine electronic device processor,
cause the marine electronic device to enable selection by a user of at least the sonar image and
the 2D or 3D sonar image; cause, in response to receiving a selection of the sonar image,
presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data; and cause, in response to
receiving a selection of the 2D or 3D sonar image, presentation of the 2D or 3D sonar image,
based on the 2D or 3D sonar image data.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal sor comprises a multiplexer such that sonar
return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements can be selected individually
for summation.
In some embodiments, the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a
watercraft such that the array of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, and
wherein the sonar image forms a downward sonar image enting a mensional image
of the underwater environment beneath the watercraft.
In yet another example embodiment, a transducer assembly is provided. The transducer
assembly includes at least one transmit transducer element ured to transmit sonar signals
into the underwater environment, wherein the at least one transmit transducer comprises an array
of a plurality of transmit ucer elements electrically connected in series, wherein each of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the
ity of transmit transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a
respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements is
oriented in a different direction. The ucer assembly includes an array of a plurality of
receive transducer ts. The array of the plurality of e transducer elements defines a
length and a width with a ratio of the length to the width being at least 3:1. Each of the plurality
of receive transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and
form corresponding sonar return data. The transducer assembly further includes a sonar signal
processor configured to receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive
transducer elements of the array; sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of
receive transducer elements to form summed sonar return data, n the subgroup of the
plurality of receive transducer elements is less than all of the plurality of receive ucer
elements; and generate sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment, wherein the
transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a watercraft such that the array of the
plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, with the length extending in a
first ion that runs generally parallel with a centerline of the raft and the width
extending in a second direction running from a port side of the watercraft to a starboard side of
the watercraft.
In yet another example embodiment, a system for imaging an underwater environment of
a body of water is provided. The system comprises a transducer assembly sing an array
of a plurality of transmit ucer elements, wherein the ity of transmit ucer
elements are electrically connected in series and configured to transmit sonar signals into the
underwater environment. Each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an
emitting face. At least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted with
respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of
transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different ion. The transducer ly further
includes an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein each of the plurality of
receive transducer ts is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and
form corresponding sonar return data. The system further includes a sonar signal processor
configured to receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer
ts of the array; and generate sonar image data based on the sonar return data, wherein the
sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment. The system
further includes a marine onic device comprising a user interface comprising a display, a
marine electronic device processor, and a memory including computer program code. The
er m code is configured to, with the marine electronic device processor, cause the
marine electronic device to receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal processor; and
cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data.
In some embodiments, each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements defines a
length and a width and the length is greater than the width, and each of the plurality of transmit
transducer ts are mounted such that the lengths of each of the plurality of transmit
transducer elements are arranged in a curved line.
In some ments, each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted
such that the emitting faces of the plurality of transmit transducer elements mimic a convex
curved surface with respect to the underwater environment. In some embodiments, the ity
of transmit transducer elements comprises at least a center transmit transducer element, a left
transmit transducer t, and right it transducer element. The center transmit
transducer element is mounted in the center of the array of the ity of transmit transducer
elements with an emitting face that is oriented generally at a first angle with respect to a
mounting plane of the transducer assembly. The left transmit transducer element is mounted off
to a left side of the center transmit transducer element with an emitting face that is oriented at a
second angle with t to the mounting plane. The right transmit transducer t is
mounted off to a right side of the center transmit transducer element with an emitting face that is
oriented at a third angle with respect to the mounting plane. The second angle and the third
angle are each less than the first angle.
In some embodiments, a difference between the second angle and the first angle is
between 5 degrees and 20 degrees, and a difference between the third angle and the first angle is
between 5 degrees and 20 degrees.
In some embodiments, a difference between the second angle and the first angle is
approximately 15 degrees, and a difference between the third angle and the first angle is
imately 15 s.
In some embodiments, the array of the plurality of transmit transducer elements is
configured to emit sonar signals in an approximately 50 degree by 50 degree beam.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor is further configured to process the
sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive ucer elements to form twodimensional
(2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data; and generate 2D or 3D sonar
image data based on the 2D or 3D sonar return data, wherein the 2D or 3D sonar image data
forms a 2D or 3D sonar image representing the underwater environment.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal sor comprises a multiplexer such that sonar
return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements can be selected individually.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor is further configured to sum the sonar
return data from all of the plurality of receive transducer elements to form summed sonar return
data; and generate second sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
second sonar image data forms a second sonar image representing the underwater environment.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor is further configured to sum the sonar
return data from a subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer elements to form summed
sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer ts is less
than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements; and generate second sonar image data
based on the summed sonar return data, n the second sonar image data forms a second
sonar image representing the underwater environment.
In yet another example embodiment, a transducer assembly for imaging an underwater
environment of a body of water is provided. The transducer ly comprises an array of a
plurality of transmit transducer elements. The plurality of transmit transducer elements are
electrically connected in series and configured to transmit sonar signals into the underwater
nment. Each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face.
At least two of the plurality of transmit transducer ts are mounted with respect to each
other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer
elements is oriented in a ent direction. The transducer assembly further includes an array
of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein each of the plurality of receive transducer
elements is configured to e sonar returns from the sonar signals and form ponding
sonar return data. The transducer assembly further es a sonar signal sor ured
to receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements of the
array; and generate sonar image data based on the sonar return data, wherein the sonar image
data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment.
In some embodiments, each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements defines a
length and a width and the length is greater than the width, and each of the plurality of transmit
ucer elements are mounted such that the lengths of each of the ity of transmit
transducer elements are arranged in a line.
In some embodiments, each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted
such that the emitting faces of the plurality of transmit transducer elements mimic a convex
curved surface with t to the underwater environment.
In some embodiments, the plurality of transmit ucer elements comprises at least a
center transmit transducer element, a left transmit ucer element, and right transmit
transducer element. The center transmit transducer element is mounted in the center of the array
of the plurality of transmit transducer elements with an emitting face that is oriented generally at
a first angle with respect to a mounting plane of the transducer assembly. The left transmit
transducer element is mounted off to a left side of the center transmit transducer element with an
emitting face that is oriented at a second angle with respect to the mounting plane. The right
transmit transducer element is mounted off to a right side of the center transmit transducer
element with an emitting face that is oriented at a third angle with t to the mounting plane.
The second angle and the third angle are each less than the first angle.
In some embodiments, a difference between the second angle and the first angle is
between 5 degrees and 20 degrees, and a difference between the third angle and the first angle is
between 5 degrees and 20 degrees.
In some embodiments, a difference between the second angle and the first angle is
approximately 15 degrees, and a difference between the third angle and the first angle is
approximately 15 degrees.
In some embodiments, the array of the plurality of transmit ucer elements is
configured to emit sonar signals in an approximately 50 degree by 50 degree beam.
In some embodiments, the sonar signal processor comprises a lexer such that sonar
return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer ts can be selected individually.
In yet another example embodiment a method of operating a transducer assembly for
imaging an underwater environment of a body of water is provided. The method comprises
causing an array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements to it sonar signals into the
ater environment, wherein the plurality of transmit transducer elements are electrically
connected in series. Each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements ses an emitting
face. At least two of the plurality of transmit ucer ts are mounted with respect to
each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the ity of it
transducer elements is oriented in a different direction. The method further includes receiving,
via a sonar signal process, sonar return data from each of a plurality of receive transducer
elements of an array of the plurality of transmit transducer elements, wherein each of the
plurality of receive transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar
signals and form the sonar return data therefrom. The method further includes generating, via
the sonar signal s, sonar image data based on the sonar return data, n the sonar
image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment.
In yet another example embodiment a system for imaging an underwater environment of
a body of water is provided. The system comprises: a ucer assembly comprising: an array
of a plurality of transmit transducer ts, wherein the plurality of transmit ucer
elements are electrically connected in series and configured to transmit sonar signals into the
underwater environment, wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises
an emitting face, wherein at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are
mounted with respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a ent direction, wherein each of the
plurality of transmit transducer ts defines a length and a width and the length is greater
than the width, and wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are d
such that the lengths of each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are arranged in a
curved line; an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements that is separate from the array
of the plurality of it transducer elements, n each of the plurality of receive
ucer ts is ured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form
corresponding sonar return data; and a sonar signal processor configured to: receive the sonar
return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer ts of the array; and generate
sonar image data based on the sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar
image representing the underwater environment; and a marine electronic device comprising: a
user interface comprising a display; a marine electronic device processor; and a memory
including computer program code configured to, with the marine electronic device processor,
cause the marine electronic device to: receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal
processor; and cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data.
In yet another example embodiment, a transducer assembly for imaging an underwater
nment of a body of water is provided. The transducer assembly comprises an array of a
plurality of transmit transducer elements, wherein the plurality of it transducer elements
are electrically connected in series and configured to transmit sonar signals into the underwater
environment, wherein each of the plurality of transmit ucer elements ses an emitting
face, wherein at least two of the ity of transmit transducer elements are mounted with
respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of
it transducer elements is oriented in a different direction, wherein each of the plurality of
transmit transducer elements defines a length and a width and the length is greater than the
width, and wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are d such that
the lengths of each of the plurality of it transducer elements are arranged in a line; an
array of a ity of receive transducer elements that is separate from the array of the plurality
of transmit transducer elements, wherein each of the plurality of receive transducer elements is
configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form corresponding sonar return
data; and a sonar signal processor configured to: receive the sonar return data from each of the
plurality of receive ucer elements of the array; and generate sonar image data based on the
sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater
environment.
In yet another example embodiment a method of operating a transducer assembly for
imaging an underwater environment of a body of water is provided. The method comprises
causing an array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements to it sonar signals into the
underwater environment, wherein the plurality of transmit transducer elements are electrically
connected in , wherein each of the plurality of it transducer elements comprises an
emitting face, wherein at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted
with t to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality
of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different direction, wherein each of the plurality
of transmit transducer elements s a length and a width and the length is greater than the
width, and wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer ts are mounted such that
the lengths of each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are arranged in a curved line;
receiving, via a sonar signal process, sonar return data from each of a ity of receive
transducer elements of an array of the plurality of transmit transducer elements that is separate
from the array of the plurality of it transducer elements, wherein each of the plurality of
receive transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and
form the sonar return data therefrom; and generating, via the sonar signal process, sonar image
data based on the sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image
representing the underwater environment.
The term ising’ as used in this specification means ‘consisting at least in part of’.
When interpreting each statement in this specification that es the term ‘comprising’,
features other than that or those prefaced by the term may also be present. Related terms such as
‘comprise’ and ‘comprises’ are to be interpreted in the same manner.
In this specification where reference has been made to patent specifications, other
external documents, or other sources of information, this is generally for the purpose of
providing a context for discussing the features of the invention. Unless specifically stated
otherwise, reference to such al documents or such sources of information is not to be
construed as an admission that such documents or such sources of information, in any
jurisdiction, are prior art or form part of the common general knowledge in the art.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE GS
Having thus described the invention in general terms, reference will now be made to the
anying drawings, which are not necessarily drawn to scale, and n:
illustrates an example vessel including various sonar ucer assemblies, in
ance with some embodiments discussed herein;
FIGs. 2A and 2B illustrate example sonar transducer assemblies with poly-geometric
transducer elements, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates another example transducer ly that includes an array of
transmit transducer elements, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein;
rates a cross-sectional view of an example array of transmit transducer
elements, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates example sonar beam shapes, in accordance with some embodiments
discussed herein;
illustrates an example sonar beam shape produced from an example array of
transmit transducer elements, wherein the array is oriented generally rdly from the
watercraft, in ance with some embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates an example sonar beam shape produced from an example array of
transmit transducer elements, wherein the array is ed in a generally forward direction with
respect to the watercraft, in accordance with some embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates an example transducer assembly including a forward ng portion
and a down scanning portion, in accordance with some embodiments sed herein;
illustrates a cross-sectional view of the transducer assembly of in
accordance with some embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates a cross-sectional view of another example transducer assembly, in
accordance with some embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates a block diagram of an example marine onic system, in accordance
with some example embodiments discussed herein;
illustrates a flowchart of example methods of operating a sonar transducer
assembly ing to some embodiments discussed herein; and
illustrates a flowchart of other example methods of operating a sonar transducer
ly ing to some embodiments discussed herein.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION
Exemplary embodiments of the present invention now will be described more fully
hereinafter with reference to the accompanying drawings, in which some, but not all
embodiments of the invention are shown. Indeed, the invention may be embodied in many
different forms and should not be construed as limited to the exemplary embodiments set forth
herein; rather, these embodiments are provided so that this disclosure will satisfy able legal
requirements. Like reference numerals refer to like elements throughout.
As ed in a watercraft, e.g. vessel 100, configured to traverse a marine
environment, e.g. body of water 101, may use one or more sonar transducer assemblies 102a,
102b, and 102c disposed on and/or proximate to the vessel. The vessel 100 may be a surface
raft, a submersible watercraft, or any other implementation known to those skilled in the
art. The ucer assemblies 102a, 102b, and 102c may each e one or more ucer
ts configured to transmit sound waves into a body of water, receive sonar return signals
from the body of water, and convert the sonar return signals into sonar return data.
One or more sonar beams may be generated by the one or more transducer assemblies
102a, 102b, and 102c when deployed in the body of water 101. In some instances, a plurality of
transducer elements may be embodied in a transducer assembly. In some instances, the
transducer assembly may include one or more of a right scanning (e.g., sidescan) element, a left
scanning (e.g., sidescan) t, a conical downscan sonar t, and/or a bar (e.g., linear,
elongated rectangle, or the like) downscan sonar element, which may be housed within a
transducer housing. In some e embodiments, the transducer assembly may be or include
a transducer array, e.g. a "phased array.” The transducer array may include a plurality of
transducer elements arranged on a printed circuit board (PCB). The PCB may mechanically
support and electrically connect the electronic components, including the transducer elements
using conductive tracks (e.g. traces), pads, and other features. The conductive tracks may
comprise sets of traces, for example, each transducer elements may be mounted to the PCB such
that the transducer element is in ical communication with a set of traces. Each transducer
element, sub-array, and/or the array of transducer elements may be configured to transmit one or
more sonar pulses and/or e one or more sonar return signals.
The transducer arrays or individual transducer elements may transmit one or more sonar
signals, e.g. sonar beams, into a body of water with a transmit transducer, a transmit/receive
transducer, or r device. When the sound waves, of the sonar beams, strike anything of
differing acoustic impedance (e.g., the sea floor or something suspended in the water above the
bottom), the sound waves reflect off that object. These echoes (or sonar return signals) may
strike the transmitting transducer element and/or a separate one or more sonar er elements,
which convert the echoes back into an electrical signal which is processed by a processor (e.g.,
processing circuity 407 and/or a sonar signal processor 449 as sed in reference to
and sent to a display (e.g., an LCD) mounted in the cabin or other convenient location in the
watercraft. This process is often called "sounding". Since the speed of sound in water may be
determined by the properties of the water (approximately 4800 feet per second in fresh water),
the time lapse between the transmitted signal and the received echoes can be ed and the
distance to the objects determined. This s may repeat itself many times per second. The
results of many ngs are used to build a picture on the y of the ater
environment, e.g. a sonar image.
In an example embodiment, the one or more transducers assemblies may include multiple
transducer arrays and/or transducer elements ating to receive sonar return signals from the
underwater environment. The transducer arrays and/or transducer elements may be arranged in a
predetermined configuration, e.g. relative positions, including known distances between each
transducer array or transducer element. The ve positions and known distances n the
transducer array or transducer element may be used to e an angle associated with the sonar
returns (and, for example, a corresponding object in the underwater environment). The respective
angles determined by the relative positions and known distances of the transducer arrays or
transducer elements may be compared and combined to generate a two-dimensional and/or a
three-dimensional position of the sonar return signals (and, for example, a corresponding object
in the underwater nment).
In some example embodiments, the returns from a plurality of the transducer arrays
and/or transducer elements may be compared via the process of interferometry to generate one or
more angle values. Interferometry may involve determining the angle to a given sonar return
signal via a phase difference between the returns ed at two or more transducer arrays
and/or transducer elements. In some embodiments, the process of beamforming may be used in
conjunction with the plurality of transducer arrays and/or transducer elements to generate one or
more angle values associated with each sonar return signal. Beamforming may involve
generating a plurality of receive-beams at predetermined angles by spatially defining the beams
based on the relative phasing of the sonar returns and detecting the distance of the sonar returns
in each respective beam. Beamforming and erometry are r bed in U.S. Patent
Application No. 14/717,458, entitled "Sonar Systems using Interferometry and/or Beamforming
for 3D g", published as US 2016/0341827, and U.S. Patent 9,739,884, entitled Systems
and Associated Methods for Producing a 3D Sonar Image," both of which are assigned to the
Assignee of the present ation and are hereby incorporated by reference herein in their
entireties.
In an example embodiment, a vessel 100 may e a main propulsion motor 105, such
as an rd or inboard motor. Additionally, the vessel 100 may include trolling motor 108
configured to propel the vessel 100 or maintain a position. The one or more ucer
assemblies (e.g., 102a, 102b, and/or 102c) may be mounted in various positions and to various
portions of the vessel 100 and/or equipment associated with the vessel 100. For example, the
transducer assemblies may be mounted to the transom 106 of the vessel 100, such as ed by
transducer assembly 102a, may be d to the bottom or side of the hull 104 of the vessel
100, such as depicted by transducer assembly 102b, or may be mounted to the ng motor
108, such as depicted by transducer ly 102c.
Example Transducer Assemblies
FIGs. 2A, 2B, 2C, 2D, 4, 5A, and 5B illustrate some example embodiments of transducer
assemblies and transducer element arrangements therein.
FIGs. 2A and 2B depict a transducer assembly including a transducer housing 200 having
a poly-geometric transducer element arrangement. The transducer housing may include a first
emitting transducer element 202 and a second emitting transducer element (204 in or
205 in ). Each of the emitting transducer elements 202, 204, 205 may be configured to
transmit one or more sonar signals into the underwater nment via at least one emitting face
of each of the emitting ucer elements 202, 204, 205. The shape of the emitting face of the
emitting transducer element 202, 204, 205 may shape the sonar beam emitted therefrom.
In the es depicted in and 2B, the first emitting transducer element 202
has an emitting face in the shape of with an elongated rectangle. As used herein “elongated”
should be interpreted as having a length (L) that is substantially longer that the width (W). The
first emitting transducer t 202, being a piezoelectric crystalline ure, may emit the
first sonar signals into the body of water by converting electrical energy into vibrational energy,
which is thereby transferred into the water surrounding the transducer assembly. As the
vibrations travel away from the emitting face of the first emitting transducer element 202 a fanshaped
sonar beam 220, such as depicted in , may be formed (e.g., at -3 dB). The fanshaped
beam 220 may produce sonar returns with high structure detail and relatively low fish
detail when rendered in a sonar image, which may be due to the relatively wide section and the
relatively narrow section of the aped beam.
Turning to the second emitting transducer elements 204 and 205 depicted in FIGs. 2A
and 2B, respectively, the second emitting transducer element 204 is a substantially cubic
rectangular prism with a substantially square emitting face and the second emitting transducer
element 205 is substantially a er with a substantially circular emitting face. As the
vibrations of the sonar signal travel away from the emitting face, a cone-shaped beam 230, such
as depicted in , may be formed (e.g., at -3 dB). The conical beam 230 may produce sonar
returns with high fish detail and relatively low ural detail when rendered in a sonar image,
which may be due to the relatively wide beam shape.
Although an elongated rectangular emitting face and a circle or square emitting face are
depicted, any emitting face shape may be substituted. The level of detail for both fish and
structure may shift respectively as the shape of the resultant beam transitions between the fan
shape and the conical shape. In some example embodiments a first length-to-width ratio )
of the first emitting transducer element 202 may be larger than a second length-to-width ratio
(L2/W2) of the second emitting transducer element 204, 205, such that each has a differently
shaped beam and therefore ent resultant sonar image characteristics.
illustrates another example transducer ly that includes an array of
transmit transducer ts 207 instead of the transmit transducer elements 202, 204, 205
shown in FIGs. 2A and 2B. Notably, in some embodiments, an array of transmit transducer
elements (e.g., 207) may be ed along with other transmit transducer elements, such as the
it transducer elements shown in FIGs. 2A and 2B.
In some embodiments, the array of transmit transducer elements 207 may be made up of
a plurality of transmit transducer elements 209 that are electrically connected in series to transmit
sonar signals within a beam pattern (e.g., beam shape). In the depicted ment, the array is
formed of three transducer elements 209a, 209b, and 209c that each have a length that is greater
than their width (although other shapes of the elements and number of elements are
contemplated). Further, the lengths of the elements are arranged in a line (e.g., end-to-end or
near -end) with respect to the horizontal plane (e.g., from the plan perspective shown in
). In this manner, the resultant beam may be wide in the perpendicular direction (e.g.,
along the line PCenterline or in the front-to-back direction of the watercraft – gh other
mounting orientations are contemplated).
Additionally, in some embodiments, the emitting faces of each of the transducer elements
209a, 209b, 209c may be oriented differently with respect to the surface of the water such that
the “effective” emitting face of the array mimics a convex curved e – y resulting in a
wide beam coverage in the other direction (e.g., perpendicular to the line PCenterline or in the -starboard
direction of the watercraft). Thus, a resulting beam may be relatively wide in both
directions. For example, some example beam shapes provide a 50 degree by 50 degree beam
shape (e.g., at -3 dB), although other example beam shapes are contemplated, such as a ~30-60
degree by ~20-50 degree beam shape.
illustrates a cross-sectional view of an example array of emitting transducer
ts 207. In the depicted embodiment, the array 207 includes a center transmit transducer
element 209b, a left transmit transducer element 209a, and a right it transducer element
209c. The center transmit ucer element 209b is mounted in the center of the array 207 and
includes an emitting face 212b that is oriented in a first direction 211b and generally at a first
angle βb with respect to a mounting plane PMounting (which may correspond to a theoretical
waterline if the array 207 is mounted so as to be oriented generally rd). The left transmit
ucer element 209a is mounted to the left of the center transmit transducer element 209b
and includes an emitting face 212a that is oriented in a second direction 211a and lly at a
second angle βa with respect to the mounting plane PMounting. The right transmit ucer
element 209c is mounted to the right of the center transmit transducer element 209b and includes
an emitting face 212c that is oriented in a third direction 211c and generally at a third angle βc
with respect to the mounting plane PMounting. Thus, the second angle βa (corresponding to the left
transmit transducer element) and the third angle βc (corresponding to the right transmit
ucer element) are less than the first angle βb (corresponding to the center transmit
transducer element). In this regard, there is an angle difference θa between the second angle βa
and the first angle βb and an angle difference θb between the third angle βc and the first angle
βb. In some embodiments, the angle differences may be the same such that the orientation of the
emitting faces of the left and right transmit transducer elements are symmetrical with respect to
the center transmit transducer t. For example, the angle difference θa, θb may be
n 5 degrees and 20 s, such as 15 degrees. In such example embodiments, the
resulting array 207 includes emitting faces of the transmit transducer elements that form
effectively a curved surface (e.g., since the elements are connected in series and are configured
to it together). As noted herein, having an effective curved surface results in a wider
beam in the plane corresponding to the curved surface.
Example beam patterns 240, 240’ that may result from such an example array are shown
in FIGs. 3B and 3C depending on the ation and mounting position of the transducer
housing 200. For example, illustrates a resulting beam pattern 240 with the transducer
housing mounted facing generally downwardly, whereas illustrates a resulting beam
pattern 240’ with the transducer housing mounted facing forward of the watercraft 100.
y, in some embodiments that utilize such an example array of transmit transducer
ts, such a structured array may provide a beneficial beam pattern that is a good
compromise between high-definition y and good fish or lure tracking. In this regard,
some traditional transducer arrangements may produce a beam that is wide in one direction and
narrow in another, which may provide high-definition structure, but lack the ability to track fish
or lures due to the narrow beam width in one direction. Some embodiments that e an array
of transmit ucers that are electrically connected in series and form an effective curved
emission surface may provide a more beneficial beam pattern for generating efinition
imagery but also enabling better fish and/or lure tracking (e.g., as the beam width in both
directions is sufficient to enable fish/lure tracking).
The transducer housing 200 may also include one or more receiving transducer elements
206, such as an array of receive transducer elements. The receiving transducer elements 206 may
be configured to receive sonar returns from the first sonar signals emitted from the first ng
transducer element 202 and the second emitting transducer element 204, 205. In some
embodiments, to tate receiving sonar returns from both the first emitting transducer element
202 and the second emitting transducer element 204, 205 without some interference, the first and
second emitting transducer elements may be configured to transmit during ct, e.g. te,
time periods. For example, the first emitting transducer element 202 and the second emitting
transducer element 204, 205 may alternately transmit, such that only the first or the second
emitting transducer element is transmitting at any one time.
Additionally or alternatively, the first ng transducer element 202 and the second
emitting transducer element 204, 205 may be configured to it at different frequencies. For
example the first ng transducer element 202 may be configured to transmit at a first
frequency and the second emitting transducer element 204, 205 may be configured to transmit at
a second frequency, which is different than the first frequency. The first frequency may be a
bandwidth that is sufficiently different from a bandwidth of the second frequency to prevent
interface from the other of the emitting transducer elements.
In some example embodiments, the receiving transducer element 206 may be a single
transducer element, e.g. piezoelectric crystalline structure, configured to convert the vibrations of
the sonar returns into an electrical signal for processing by a sonar signal sor, as discussed
below. In an example embodiment, the receiving transducer element 206 may be a ucer
array including a plurality of individual ucer elements 208 arranged in a linear array. In
some example embodiments, the receiving transducer element 206 may include a plurality of
individual ucer elements 208 arranged in a first linear array and a second linear array,
similar to the receiving transducers 314A and 314B ed in In some embodiments,
the udinal axis of the first linear array may be perpendicular to longitudinal axis of the
second linear array.
Referring to a sonar signal processor 449 may receive, via the receiving
transducer 206, one or more sonar returns from the sonar signals transmitted by the first emitting
transducer element 202 and one or more second sonar returns from the sonar signals transmitted
by the second emitting transducer element 204, 205. In an example embodiment, the sonar signal
processor 449 may e the sonar return data from the receiving transducer t 206 as a
data stream or feed, such as in an instance in which the receiving transducer element is a single
transducer element. In some example ments, the sonar return data may be multiplexed or
otherwise addressed by the sonar signal processor 449, such that the sonar returns are
identifiably received from the first linear array, the second linear array, and/or individual
transducer elements 208.
The sonar signal processor 449 may be configured to generate sonar image data from
both the first sonar returns and second sonar returns. The sonar image data may form a sonar
image representing the underwater environment, including without limitation 2D sonar images,
3D sonar images, such as based on interferometry of the sonar image data corresponding to the
first emitting transducer element 202 and the second emitting transducer element 204, 205,
and/or live 2D or 3D sonar images of the ater environment.
In an example embodiment, the processing circuitry 407 may be configured to cause one
or more sonar images to render (e.g., t) on the display 440. In some example
embodiments, the processing circuitry 407 may determine which sonar images to display based
on user input on a user interface 435. The determined sonar image for display may be a sonar
image based on the first sonar return, a sonar image based on the second sonar image, or a
blended sonar image based on the sonar data associated with both the first sonar return and the
second sonar return.
In an example embodiment, the blended sonar image may include sonar image data from
both the first sonar return and the second sonar return. In some embodiments, the sing
circuitry 407 renders the sonar image data for both sonar returns er to generate the blended
image without further processing. In some example embodiments, the sing circuitry 407
may determine a desired blend ratio and te the blended sonar image based on the blend
ratio. The blend ratio may be automatically determined, such as a gramed blend ratio or
may be based on a user input on the user interface.
The processing try 407 may utilize brightness, transparency, or other suitable image
overlay contrasting. For example, the processing circuitry 407 may generate a blended sonar
image with a 50/50 contrast, such that the sonar image data from each of the first and second
sonar returns is given equal weight. The processing circuitry 407 may generate further blended
sonar images at ent contrast levels based on a user input, such as increasing the weight of
the second sonar image data associated with the second emitting transducer element 204, 205
when attempting to locate fish. In another example, the user input may cause an increase to the
weight of the first sonar image data associated with the first emitting sonar transducer 202 when
attempting to move the vessel to a new location on the body of water, such when structural
information is important for safety and/or determining a quality fishing location.
Additionally or alternatively, the sing circuitry 407 may be configured to receive
propulsion information from a sion system 409, such as operating conditions of the main
propulsion engine 105 and/or trolling motor 108. The sing circuitry 407 may determine a
blend ratio with a higher weight for the second sonar image data associated with the second
emitting transducer element 204, 205 when the propulsion information indicates that the vessel
100 is stationary, below a predetermined movement threshold, such as 2 knots, and/or the main
propulsion engine 105 and/or trolling motor are not operating. Similarly, the processing circuitry
407 may determine a blend ratio with a higher weight for the first sonar image data associated
with the first emitting transducer element 202 when the propulsion information indicates that the
vessel 100 is moving greater than a predetermined movement threshold, such as 2 knots, and/or
the main propulsion engine 105 and/or trolling motor are operating.
The above described transducer assembly 200 may enable rendering of sonar images
ing either, or both, the high structural detail and the high fish detail. Additionally, since
sonar return data is transmitted by two separate ng transducer ts and received by a
common receiving transducer element 206, the sonar images may be live, e.g., real time or near
real time, 2D or 3D sonar images of underwater environment.
In some embodiments, an array of receive transducer elements (e.g., the array 206) may
be used to form traditional sonar images, such as one-dimensional (1D) (e.g., time-based) sonar
images. For example, the sonar signal sor 449 may be configured to sum the sonar return
data received from one or more individual receive transducer elements 208 of the e array.
In this , in some embodiments, one or more multiplexers or other s may be used to
enable selection of receipt of sonar return data from each of the individual receive transducer
elements – enabling selection of the sonar return data from ic receive transducer elements.
Depending on which receive transducer elements are utilized and summed, different
levels of definition of the resulting sonar image can be obtained. For example, in the ion
where the array includes a large ratio of length to width (e.g., 3:1 or greater), then summing the
sonar return data from all or most of the individual receive ucer elements results in a 1D
sonar image with relatively high-definition (e.g., which may be equivalent to a sonar image
formed using a linear (e.g., rectangular-shaped) transducer element). For example, the sonar
signal processor 449 may select to receive and sum the sonar return data from all of the received
elements 208 of the array 206 shown in FIGs. 2A-2C. By performing a straight summation of
the sonar return data, the resulting summed sonar return data can be used to form a 1D (timebased
) waterfall sonar image. r, by summing the sonar return data from all the receive
transducer elements, the effective beam shape corresponding to the summed sonar return data
corresponds to a similar beam shape of a traditional linear (e.g., rectangular-shaped) ucer
element and, thus, a similarly high-definition of sonar imagery.
Along similar lines, summing the sonar return data from a small subgroup of
individual receive transducer elements (e.g., 1-4 elements) results in a 1D sonar image with
relatively lower definition (e.g., which may be equivalent to a sonar image formed using a
conical (e.g., circular-shaped) transducer element). For example, the sonar signal processor 449
may select to receive and sum the sonar return data from only the four receive elements 208a-d
of the array 206 shown in , which may correspond to the receive ucer elements that
are located in the center of the array 206. In this regard, a small number of e transducer
elements may be chosen and, in some cases, the center receive ucer element(s) may be
chosen. By performing a straight summation of the sonar return data, the resulting summed
sonar return data can be used to form a 1D (time-based) waterfall sonar image. Further, by
summing the sonar return data from only the subgroup of receive transducer elements, the
effective beam shape corresponding to the summed sonar return data corresponds to a similar
beam shape of a traditional conical (e.g., circular-shaped) transducer element and, thus, a
similarly lower-definition of sonar imagery. y, in on to being commonly used, such
a sonar image also es fish , which is desirable to many anglers.
Notably, variations of summed sonar return data and relative positioning of the
selected receive transducer elements to produce different sonar images are, thus, contemplated
by s embodiments herein.
Additionally, as noted herein, the array of receive transducer elements 206 may be
used to form two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data that can be used
to generate a 2D or 3D sonar image. In this regard, the sonar signal processor 449 may be
ured to utilize sonar return data from two or more of the receive transducer elements 208
to generate the 2D or 3D sonar return data, such as using interferometry and/or beamforming as
described herein.
In some ments, the marine system that utilizes such example transducer
assemblies may be configured to enable selection of sonar images corresponding to each of the
above example sonar images being generated, such that the array of receive ucer elements
may be used to create each and/or all of the above noted sonar images, e.g., corresponding to
summed sonar return data and/or 2D/3D sonar return data. A display of the system may, thus, be
configured to t each of the sonar images and may be configured to simultaneously present
the sonar images, as the sonar return data may be gathered and processed simultaneously.
illustrates a transducer assembly having a transducer housing 300
including a forward scanning portion 302 and down scanning portion 304. The forward scanning
portion 302 may include an emitting element 306 and one or more receiving arrays 308A, 308B.
The emitting element 306 may be configured to transmit one or more first sonar signals into the
body of water, such as in a manner similar to the emitting transducer elements discussed above.
Although, only a single ng ucer element 306 is depicted, a transducer element
uration r to the transducer assembly illustrated in FIGs 2A or 2B may substituted for
additional functionality.
Each receiving array 308A, 308B may include a plurality of individual ucer
elements 310, e.g. piezoelectric crystalline structures, arranged in a linear array. In some
embodiments, the individual transducer elements 310 may be arranged in a first linear array
308A and a second linear array 308B. A longitudinal axis of the first linear array 308A may be
perpendicular to a longitudinal axis of the second linear array 308B. Similar to the operation of
the receiving element 206 discussed above in reference to FIGs. 2A and 2B, the individual
transducer ts 310 may convert the ional energy of reflected sonar signals, e.g. sonar
returns, into an electrical signal. The sonar signal sor 449 ( may receive one or more
sonar returns from the receiving ucer arrays 308A, 308B. In an example embodiment, the
sonar signal processor 449 may receive the sonar return data from the receiving transducer arrays
308A, 308B as a data stream or feed. In some example ments, the sonar return data may
be multiplexed or otherwise sed by the sonar signal processor 449, such that the sonar
returns are identifiably received from the first linear array 308A, the second linear array 308B,
and/or individual transducer elements 310.
The down scanning portion 304 may include an emitting transducer t 312
and one or more receiving transducer arrays 314A, 314B. In some example embodiments, the
down scanning portion 304 may also include a second emitting element 316, which may have a
different emitting face shape, such as an elongated rectangular emitting face. The emitting
transducer element 312 and/or 316 may be configured and operate with the receiving transducer
array(s) 314A, 314B in a manner similar to the transducer lies discussed in FIGs. 2A and
2B and/or the down transducer assembly of the down scanning portion 302 discussed above.
FIGs. 5A and 5B illustrate sectional views of example transducer
assemblies, such as the transducer assembly of in accordance with some ments.
The transducer housing 300 may be configured to retain the forward scanning portion 302 and
the down scanning portion 304. When the transducer housing 300 is d to a vessel 100, the
down scanning portion 304 may face substantially downward into the body of water 101 in a
horizontal plane parallel to the surface of the body of water, such that the downward scanning
portion 304 transmits one or more sonar signals in a generally downward direction. The forward
ng portion 302 may face at least partially forward and angle out of the horizontal plane by
a predetermined amount or angle, such as 30 degrees, 45 degrees, or other suitable angle, such
that the forward scanning portion 302 transmits sonar signals into the body of water in a
generally forward and rd direction.
In some instances, a blind spot 318 may be created by the difference in
transmission and receiving angles of the forward scanning portion 302 and down scanning
portion 304, as shown in . The blind spot 318 may be mitigated or eliminated by
reduction of the angle difference between the forward scanning portion 302 and the down
scanning portion 304. Additionally or alternatively, the forward ng portion 302’ may be
curved, as depicted in , to mitigate or ate the blind spot 318. In an example
embodiment, the forward scanning portion 302’ is curved from a forward end to an aft end, such
that the aft end of the forward scanning portion is substantially in the horizontal plane.
Referring also to the sonar signal processor 449 may be configured to
generate sonar image data based on each of sonar returns received from both the receiving
transducer array(s) 308A, 308B of the forward scanning portion 302 and the receiving transducer
array(s) 314A, 314B of the down ng portion 304. The processing circuitry 407 may
receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal processor 449 and cause one or more sonar
images to be presented on a user interface. The sonar images may be 2D sonar images, 3D sonar
images, blended sonar images, or the like based on the sonar returns from the d scanning
portion 302 and/or the down scanning portion 304.
In some example ments, the sonar signal processor 449 and/or the
processing circuitry 407 may generate a continuous sonar image based on both the sonar returns
from the forward scanning portion 302 and the down scanning portion 304. In one such
embodiment, the sonar signal processor 449 and/or the sing circuitry 407 may register the
common edge of the sonar image based on the sonar return from the d scanning portion
302 and the sonar image based on the sonar return from the down scanning n 304. The
sonar signal processor and/or the processing circuitry 407 may then stitch the common edges of
the sonar images together based on the registration.
As sed above the one or more generated sonar images may be rendered on
the display 440. The processing circuitry 407 may automatically determine the sonar image to
display, such as due to operational conditions, discussed below, or preprogrammed default
selection. Additionally or alternatively, the processing circuitry 407 may ine the sonar
image to render on the display based on user input on the user interface 435.
In an example embodiment, the processing circuitry 407 may be configured to
render one or more sonar images based on the operational condition of the vessel, which may be
based on propulsion information received from the propulsion system 409. For example, the
processing circuitry 407 may render a an sonar image in an instance in which the vessel
100 is stationary or moving less than a predetermined threshold, such as 2 knots, or the main
propulsion engine 105 and/or the trolling motor 108 is not operating. The processing circuitry
407 may render a forwardscan sonar image in an instance in which the vessel 100 is moving
r than a ermined threshold, such as 2 knots, or the main propulsion engine 105
and/or the trolling motor 108 is operating. Additionally or alternatively, the processing circuitry
407 may pan a continuous sonar image based on the ional condition of the propulsion
system 409. For example, the processing circuitry 407 may pan the continuous sonar image
toward the downscan portion of the image when the propulsion information indicates the vessel
100 is relatively stationary and toward the forwardscan n when the propulsion information
indicates movement of the vessel 100.
Example Architecture
] shows a block diagram of ing device, such as user device 403. The
ed computing device is an example marine electronic device 405. The marine electronic
device 405 may include a number of different modules or components, each of which may
comprise any device or means embodied in either hardware, software, or a combination of
hardware and software configured to perform one or more corresponding functions. The marine
electronic device may also be in communication with a k 402.
The marine electronic device 405 may also include one or more communications
modules configured to communicate with one another in any of a number of different s
including, for example, via a network. In this regard, the communications module may include
any of a number of different communication backbones or frameworks ing, for example,
Ethernet, the NMEA 2000 framework, GPS, cellular, WiFi, or other suitable networks. The
network may also support other data sources, including GPS, autopilot, engine data, compass,
radar, etc. us other peripheral devices such as one or more wired or wireless multifunction
displays may be included in a marine system 400.
] The marine electronic device 405 may include a processor 410, a memory 420, a
user interface 435, a display 440, one or more sensors (e.g. position sensor 445, other sensors
447, etc.), and a communication interface 430.
The processor 410 may be any means configured to execute various programmed
operations or instructions stored in a memory device such as a device or circuitry operating in
accordance with software or otherwise embodied in re or a ation of hardware and
software (e.g. a sor operating under software control or the processor embodied as an
application specific integrated circuit (ASIC) or field mmable gate array (FPGA)
specifically ured to perform the operations described herein, or a combination thereof)
thereby configuring the device or circuitry to perform the corresponding functions of the
processor 410 as described herein. In this regard, the processor 410 may be ured to analyze
electrical signals communicated thereto to provide or receive sonar data, sensor data, location
data, and/or additional environmental data. For example, the processor 410 may be configured to
receive sonar return data, generate sonar image data, and generate one or more sonar images
based on the sonar image data.
In some embodiments, the processor 410 may be further configured to implement
signal processing or enhancement features to improve the display characteristics or data or
images, collect or s additional data, such as time, temperature, GPS information, waypoint
designations, or others, or may filter extraneous data to better analyze the collected data. It may
further implement notices and alarms, such as those determined or adjusted by a user, to reflect
depth, ce of fish, proximity of other es, e.g. watercraft, etc.
In an example embodiment, the memory 420 may include one or more nontransitory
storage or memory devices such as, for example, volatile and/or non-volatile memory
that may be either fixed or removable. The memory 420 may be configured to store instructions,
computer m code, marine data, such as sonar data, chart data, on/position data, and
other data ated with the tion system in a non-transitory computer readable medium
for use, such as by the processor for enabling the marine electronic device 405 to carry out
various functions in accordance with example embodiments of the t invention. For
example, the memory 420 could be configured to buffer input data for processing by the
processor 410. Additionally or alternatively, the memory 420 could be configured to store
instructions for execution by the processor 410.
The communication interface 430 may be ured to enable connection to
external systems (e.g. an external network 402). In this manner, the marine electronic device 405
may retrieve stored data from a remote server 460 via the external network 402 in addition to or
as an alternative to the onboard memory 420. Additionally or alternatively, the marine electronic
device may transmit or receive data, such as sonar signals, sonar returns, sonar image data or the
like to or from a transducer assembly 407, more particularly to or from a sonar signal sor
449. In some embodiments, the marine electronic device may also be configured to communicate
with a propulsion system 409 of the vessel 100. The marine electronic device may receive data
indicative of operation of the propulsion system, such as engine or ng motor running,
running speed, or the like.
] The position sensor 445 may be configured to determine the current position
and/or location of the marine electronic device 405. For example, the position sensor 445 may
comprise a GPS, bottom contour, inertial tion system, such as machined electromagnetic
sensor (MEMS), a ring laser gyroscope, or other location detection system.
The display 440, e.g. screen, may be configured to display images and may
e or otherwise be in communication with a user interface 435 configured to receive input
from a user. The display 440 may be, for example, a conventional LCD (liquid crystal display), a
touch screen display, mobile device, or any other suitable display known in the art upon which
images may be displayed.
] In any of the embodiments, the display 440 may present one or more sets of
marine data (or images ted from the one or more sets of data). Such marine data includes
chart data, radar data, weather data, location data, position data, ation data, sonar data, or
any other type of information relevant to the watercraft. In some embodiments, the display 440
may be configured to present such marine data simultaneously as one or more layers or in splitscreen
mode. In some embodiments, a user may select any of the possible combinations of the
marine data for display.
In some further embodiments, various sets of data, referred to above, may be
superimposed or overlaid onto one another. For example, a route may be applied to (or overlaid
onto) a chart (e.g. a map or navigational chart). Additionally or atively, depth information,
weather information, radar ation, sonar information, or any other navigation system inputs
may be d to one another.
The user interface 435 may include, for example, a keyboard, keypad, function
keys, mouse, scrolling device, input/output ports, touch screen, or any other mechanism by
which a user may interface with the system.
Although the display 440 of is shown as being directly connected to the
sor 410 and within the marine electronic device 405, the display 440 could alternatively be
remote from the processor 410 and/or marine electronic device 405. Likewise, in some
embodiments, the position sensor 445 and/or user interface 435 could be remote from the marine
electronic device 405.
The marine electronic device 405 may include one or more other sensors 447
configured to measure environmental conditions. The other sensors 447 may include, for
example, an air temperature sensor, a water temperature sensor, a current sensor, a light sensor, a
wind sensor, a speed sensor, or the like.
The transducer assembly 462 may have one or more transducers (e.g., transducers
468, 469), such as a plurality of scanning portions 302, 304 (such as discussed in nce to
FIGs. 4-5B) and/or various emitting or receiving transducers (such as discussed in reference to
FIGs. 2A-2D). The transducer assembly 462 may also include a sonar signal sor 449
configured to receive one or more sonar returns and determine sonar image data. In some
ments, the sonar signal processor 465 may be configured to select individual ucer
elements to gather sonar return data and/or cause transmission, such as through a multiplexer
466. Although depicted in the transducer assembly 462, it would be ately tood by
one of ordinary skill in the art, that the sonar signal processor 449 may be a portion of the user
device 403, the marine onic device, the processing circuitry 407, the processor 410, or
another remote device/system.
The propulsion system 409 may include the main propulsion motor 105 and/or
trolling motor 108. The propulsion motor 105 and/or the trolling motor 108 may e one or
more sensors to measure operation or speed of main propulsion motor 105 and/or the trolling
motor 108.
Example Flowchart(s) and Operations
] Embodiments of the present invention provide methods, apparatus and computer
program products for operating a transducer assembly. Various examples of the operations
performed in accordance with embodiments of the present invention will now be provided with
reference to FIGs. 7-8.
illustrates a flowchart according to e methods for operating a sonar
transducer according to an example embodiment. The operations illustrated in and described
with respect to may, for example, be performed by, with the ance of, and/or under
the control of one or more of the processor 410, memory 420, communication interface 430, user
interface 435, position sensor 445, other sensor 447, transducer assembly 462, sonar signal
processor 449, display 440, and/or propulsion system 409. The method may include receiving
first sonar return data from one or more first sonar signals at operation 502, receiving second
sonar return data from one or more second sonar signals at operation 504, and determining sonar
image data based on both the first sonar return data and the second sonar return data at operation
In some embodiments, the method may include additional, optional operations,
and/or the operations described above may be modified or ted. Some examples of
modifications, optional operations, and augmentations are described below, as indicated by
dashed lines, such as, determining a desired blend ratio at operation 506 and causing presentation
of the sonar image on a user ace at operation 510.
illustrates a flowchart according to e methods for operating a sonar
transducer assembly according to an example embodiment. The operations illustrated in and
described with respect to may, for example, be performed by, with the assistance of,
and/or under the l of one or more of the processor 410, memory 420, communication
interface 430, user interface 435, position sensor 445, other sensor 447, transducer assembly 462,
sonar signal processor 449, display 440, and/or sion system 409. The method may e
g transmission of sonar signals at operation 602, receiving sonar return data from one or
more transducer elements at operation 604, processing and/or summing some or all of the
received sonar return data at operation 606, generating corresponding sonar image data at
operation 608, and g presentation of the sonar image(s), such as on a user interface at
operation 610.
FIGs. 7-8 illustrate flowcharts of a system, method, and computer program
product according to an e embodiment. It will be understood that each block of the
flowcharts, and combinations of blocks in the flowcharts, may be implemented by various
means, such as hardware and/or a computer program product comprising one or more computerreadable
mediums having computer readable program instructions stored thereon. For example,
one or more of the procedures described herein may be embodied by computer program
instructions of a er program product. In this regard, the computer program product(s)
which embody the procedures bed herein may be stored by, for example, the memory 420
and executed by, for example, the processor 410. As will be iated, any such computer
program product may be loaded onto a computer or other programmable apparatus (for example,
a marine electronic device 405) to produce a machine, such that the computer m product
including the instructions which execute on the computer or other programmable apparatus
creates means for implementing the functions specified in the flowchart s). Further, the
computer program t may comprise one or more non-transitory computer-readable
mediums on which the computer program instructions may be stored such that the one or more
computer-readable memories can direct a computer or other programmable device (for example,
a marine electronic device 405) to cause a series of operations to be performed on the computer
or other programmable apparatus to produce a computer-implemented s such that the
ctions which execute on the er or other programmable apparatus implement the
functions specified in the flowchart block(s).
Additional Example Embodiments
] In an example embodiment, a system for imaging an underwater environment is
provided including a transducer housing including a first transducer element configured to
transmit one or more first sonar s into a body of water and a second transducer element
configured to transmit one or more second sonar signals into the body of water. A -towidth
ratio of an emitting face of the first transducer element is larger than a length-to-width
ratio of an emitting face of the second transducer element. The transducer housing also includes
a sonar signal processor and at least one third transducer element ured to receive one or
more first sonar returns from the one or more first sonar signals and one or more second sonar
returns from the one or more second sonar signals. The sonar signal sor is configured to
receive the one or more first sonar returns, receive the one or more second sonar returns, and
determine sonar image data based on both the one or more first sonar returns and the one or more
second sonar returns. The sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater
environment. In an example embodiment, the marine electronic device also includes a user
interface including a display, a marine electronic device processor, and a memory including
computer program code. The computer program code is configured to, with the marine onic
device processor, cause the marine onic device to receive the sonar image data from the
sonar signal sor and cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data.
The sonar image includes a real time representation of the underwater environment.
In some example ments, the sonar signal processor and memory are
further configured to determine a desired blend ratio of the first sonar return data and second
sonar return data and determine the sonar image data by blending the first sonar return data and
the second sonar return data based on the desired blend ratio. In an e embodiment, the
emitting face of the first transducer element defines a rectangular shape of a first size and the
emitting face of the second transducer element defines a rectangular shape of a second size. In
some example embodiments, the emitting face of the first transducer element defines a
rectangular shape and the emitting face of the second transducer element defines a circular
shape. In an example embodiment, the second emitting face defines a second shape that is
different than a first shape of the first emitting face. In some example embodiments, the first
transducer element is ured to transmit the one or more first sonar signals in a fan-shaped
sonar beam and the second transducer element is ured to it the one or more second
sonar signals in a cone-shaped sonar beam. In an example ment, the first transducer
element transmits the one or more first sonar signals during a first time period and the second
transducer element transmits the one or more second sonar s during a second time period.
The first time period is separate from the second time period. In some example embodiments, the
first transducer element transmits the one or more first sonar signals at a first frequency and the
second ucer element transmits the one or more second sonar signals at a second frequency.
The first frequency is different from the second frequency. In some example embodiments, the at
least one third transducer element includes a plurality of transducer elements arranged in a linear
array.
In a r example embodiment, a transducer assembly is provided ing a
transducer housing defining a forward scanning portion and a down scanning portion. The down
scanning portion includes a first transducer element configured transmit one or more first sonar
signals in a generally forward and downward direction into a body of water, a first transducer
array configured to receive one or more first sonar returns from the one or more first sonar
signals and including a first plurality of transducer elements arranged in a first linear array, and a
second transducer array configured to receive one or more second sonar s from the one or
more first sonar signals and including a second plurality of transducer elements ed in a
second linear array. A longitudinal axis of the first linear array is perpendicular to a longitudinal
axis of the second linear array. The down scanning n includes a second transducer element
ured to transmit one or more second sonar signals in a generally downward direction into
the body of water; a third transducer array configured to receive one or more third sonar returns
from the one or more second sonar signals and ing a third ity of ucer elements
ed in a third linear array; and a fourth transducer array configured to receive one or more
fourth sonar returns from the one or more second sonar signals and including a fourth plurality of
transducer elements arranged in a fourth linear array. A longitudinal axis of the third linear array
is perpendicular to a udinal axis of the fourth linear array.
In an example embodiment, the forward scanning portion defines a curved surface
extending from a forward end to a rear end, such that the surface at the rear end of the forward
scanning portion is substantially in the horizontal plane that is parallel to a surface of the body of
water.
An example embodiment of the present invention includes an e sonar
transducer. The above referenced summary section is provided to uce a selection of
concepts in a fied form that are further described below in the detailed description section.
The summary is not intended to identify key features or essential features of the claimed subject
matter, nor is it intended to be used to limit the scope of the claimed subject matter. Moreover,
the d subject matter is not limited to implementations that solve any or all disadvantages
noted in any part of this disclosure.
Conclusion
Many modifications and other embodiments of the inventions set forth herein will
come to mind to one skilled in the art to which these inventions pertain having the benefit of the
teachings presented in the foregoing ptions and the associated drawings. Therefore, it is to
be understood that the embodiments of the invention are not to be limited to the specific
embodiments disclosed and that modifications and other embodiments are intended to be
included within the scope of the invention. er, gh the foregoing descriptions and
the associated drawings describe example embodiments in the context of certain example
combinations of elements and/or functions, it should be iated that different combinations
of elements and/or functions may be provided by alternative embodiments without departing
from the scope of the invention. In this regard, for example, different combinations of elements
and/or functions than those explicitly described above are also contemplated within the scope of
the invention. Although specific terms are ed herein, they are used in a generic and
descriptive sense only and not for es of limitation.
1. A system for imaging an underwater environment of a body of water, the system
comprising:
a transducer assembly sing:
an array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements, wherein the plurality of
transmit transducer elements are electrically connected in series and configured to
transmit sonar signals into the underwater environment, wherein each of the plurality of
transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face, n at least two of the
plurality of transmit transducer ts are mounted with respect to each other such that
a respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer
elements is oriented in a different direction;
an array of a plurality of receive transducer ts, wherein each of the
plurality of receive transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the
sonar signals and form corresponding sonar return data; and
a sonar signal processor configured to:
receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of e transducer
elements of the array; and
generate sonar image data based on the sonar return data, wherein the sonar image
data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment; and
a marine electronic device comprising:
a user interface comprising a display;
a marine onic device processor; and
a memory including computer program code configured to, with the marine
onic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal processor; and
cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data.
2. The system of clause 1, wherein each of the plurality of it transducer elements
defines a length and a width and the length is r than the width, and wherein each of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements are d such that the s of each of the
plurality of it transducer elements are arranged in a curved line.
3. The system of clause 2, wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are
mounted such that the emitting faces of the plurality of transmit transducer elements mimic a
convex curved surface with respect to the underwater environment.
4. The system of clause 3, wherein the plurality of transmit ucer elements comprises
at least a center transmit transducer element, a left transmit transducer t, and right
transmit transducer element,
wherein the center transmit transducer element is mounted in the center of the array of
the plurality of transmit transducer elements with an emitting face that is oriented generally at a
first angle with respect to a mounting plane of the transducer assembly,
wherein the left transmit transducer element is mounted off to a left side of the center
transmit ucer element with an emitting face that is oriented at a second angle with respect
to the mounting plane,
wherein the right transmit transducer element is mounted off to a right side of the center
transmit ucer element with an emitting face that is oriented at a third angle with respect to
the mounting plane, and
wherein the second angle and the third angle are each less than the first angle.
. The system of clause 4, wherein a difference between the second angle and the first angle
is n 5 degrees and 20 degrees, and wherein a difference between the third angle and the
first angle is between 5 degrees and 20 degrees.
6. The system of clause 4, wherein a difference between the second angle and the first angle
is approximately 15 degrees, and wherein a ence between the third angle and the first angle
is approximately 15 degrees.
7. The system of clause 1, wherein the array of the plurality of transmit transducer elements
is configured to emit sonar signals in an approximately 50 degree by 50 degree beam.
8. The system of clause 1, wherein the sonar signal processor is further configured to:
process the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements to
form two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data; and
generate 2D or 3D sonar image data based on the 2D or 3D sonar return data, wherein the
2D or 3D sonar image data forms a 2D or 3D sonar image representing the underwater
environment.
9. The system of clause 1, wherein the sonar signal processor comprises a multiplexer such
that sonar return data from each of the plurality of e transducer elements can be selected
individually.
. The system of clause 1, wherein the sonar signal processor is further configured to:
sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of receive transducer elements to form
summed sonar return data; and
generate second sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, n the
second sonar image data forms a second sonar image representing the ater environment.
11. The system of clause 1, wherein the sonar signal processor is r configured to:
sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer ts
to form summed sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer
elements is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements; and
generate second sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
second sonar image data forms a second sonar image representing the ater environment.
12. A transducer assembly for imaging an underwater environment of a body of water, the
transducer assembly comprising:
an array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements, wherein the plurality of transmit
transducer elements are electrically connected in series and configured to it sonar signals
into the underwater environment, wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements
comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the plurality of it transducer elements
are mounted with respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of
the plurality of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different direction;
an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein each of the plurality of
receive ucer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and
form corresponding sonar return data; and
a sonar signal processor configured to:
receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer
elements of the array; and
generate sonar image data based on the sonar return data, wherein the sonar image
data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment.
13. The transducer assembly of clause 12, wherein each of the plurality of transmit
transducer elements defines a length and a width and the length is r than the width, and
wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted such that the lengths
of each of the plurality of transmit transducer ts are arranged in a line.
14. The transducer assembly of clause 13, wherein each of the plurality of transmit
transducer ts are d such that the emitting faces of the plurality of transmit
ucer elements mimic a convex curved surface with respect to the underwater environment.
. The ucer assembly of clause 14, wherein the plurality of transmit transducer
elements comprises at least a center it transducer element, a left transmit ucer
element, and right transmit transducer element,
wherein the center transmit transducer element is mounted in the center of the array of
the plurality of transmit transducer elements with an emitting face that is oriented generally at a
first angle with respect to a mounting plane of the transducer ly,
wherein the left transmit transducer element is mounted off to a left side of the center
transmit transducer element with an emitting face that is ed at a second angle with respect
to the mounting plane,
n the right transmit transducer element is mounted off to a right side of the center
transmit transducer element with an emitting face that is oriented at a third angle with respect to
the mounting plane, and
wherein the second angle and the third angle are each less than the first angle.
16. The transducer assembly of clause 15, wherein a difference between the second angle and
the first angle is between 5 s and 20 degrees, and wherein a difference between the third
angle and the first angle is between 5 degrees and 20 s.
17. The transducer assembly of clause 15, wherein a difference between the second angle and
the first angle is approximately 15 degrees, and wherein a ence between the third angle and
the first angle is approximately 15 degrees.
18. The ucer assembly of clause 12, wherein the array of the plurality of transmit
transducer elements is configured to emit sonar signals in an approximately 50 degree by 50
degree beam.
19. The transducer assembly of clause 12, wherein the sonar signal processor comprises a
multiplexer such that sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements
can be ed individually.
. A method of operating a transducer ly for g an underwater environment of
a body of water, the method comprising:
causing an array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements to transmit sonar signals
into the underwater environment, wherein the plurality of transmit transducer elements are
electrically connected in series, wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer ts
comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the ity of transmit transducer elements
are mounted with respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of
the plurality of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different direction;
receiving, via a sonar signal process, sonar return data from each of a plurality of e
transducer elements of an array of the plurality of transmit transducer elements, wherein each of
the plurality of e transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar
signals and form the sonar return data therefrom; and
generating, via the sonar signal s, sonar image data based on the sonar return data,
wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment.
THAT WHICH IS D:
1. A system for imaging an underwater environment of a body of water, the system
comprising:
a transducer assembly comprising:
at least one transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into
the underwater environment, wherein the at least one it transducer comprises an
array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements electrically connected in series,
wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face,
wherein at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted with
respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different direction;
an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein the array of the
plurality of receive transducer elements defines a length and a width with a ratio of the
length to the width being at least 3:1, wherein each of the plurality of receive transducer
ts is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form
ponding sonar return data; and
a sonar signal sor configured to:
e the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer
elements of the array;
sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of e ucer elements
to form summed sonar return data; and
generate sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater nment; and
a marine electronic device comprising:
a user interface comprising a display;
a marine electronic device sor; and
a memory including computer program code configured to, with the marine
electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal processor; and
cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data,
wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a watercraft such
that the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, with
the length extending in a first direction that runs generally parallel with a centerline of the
watercraft and the width extending in a second ion running from a port side of the
watercraft to a starboard side of the raft.
2. The system of claim 1, wherein the sonar image forms a downward sonar image
representing a one-dimensional image of the underwater environment beneath the watercraft.
3. The system of claim 1, wherein the array of the plurality of receive transducer ts
comprises at least 8 e transducer elements.
4. The system of claim 3, wherein the sonar signal processor is further configured to:
sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of receive transducer elements
to form second summed sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of e
transducer elements is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements; and
generate second sonar image data based on the second summed sonar return data,
wherein the second sonar image data forms a second sonar image representing the underwater
environment.
. The system of claim 4, wherein the up of the ity of receive transducer
elements includes at least two receive transducer elements that are located generally in the center
of the array of receive transducer ts.
6. The system of claim 4, wherein the computer program code is further configured to, with
the marine electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
enable ion by a user of at least the sonar image and the second sonar image;
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the sonar image, presentation of the sonar
image, based on the sonar image data; and
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the second sonar image, presentation of the
second sonar image, based on the second sonar image data.
7. The system of claim 6, wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be d to a
watercraft such that the array of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, and
wherein the sonar image forms a downward sonar image enting a one-dimensional image
of the underwater environment beneath the watercraft, and wherein the second sonar image
forms a second downward sonar image representing a one-dimensional image of the underwater
environment beneath the watercraft, wherein the definition of objects within the sonar image is
greater than the definition of objects within the second sonar image.
8. The system of claim 1, wherein the sonar signal processor comprises a multiplexer such
that sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer ts can be selected
individually for summation.
9. The system of claim 1, wherein the sonar signal processor is r configured to:
process the sonar return data from each of the ity of receive transducer elements to
form two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data; and
generate 2D or 3D sonar image data based on the 2D or 3D sonar return data, wherein the
2D or 3D sonar image data forms a 2D or 3D sonar image representing the ater
environment.
. The system of claim 9, wherein the computer program code is further configured to, with
the marine onic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
enable selection by a user of at least the sonar image and the 2D or 3D sonar image;
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the sonar image, presentation of the sonar
image, based on the sonar image data; and
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the 2D or 3D sonar image, presentation of
the 2D or 3D sonar image, based on the 2D or 3D sonar image data.
11. A transducer assembly comprising:
at least one transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into an
underwater environment, wherein the at least one it transducer comprises an array of a
plurality of transmit transducer ts electrically connected in series, wherein each of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a
respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of it transducer elements is
oriented in a different direction;
an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein the array of the plurality of
receive transducer elements s a length and a width with a ratio of the length to the width
being at least 3:1, wherein each of the plurality of receive transducer elements is configured to
receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form corresponding sonar return data; and
a sonar signal processor configured to:
receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer
elements of the array;
sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of e transducer elements
to form summed sonar return data; and
generate sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment,
wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a watercraft such that the
array of the plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, with the length
extending in a first direction that runs generally el with a centerline of the raft and
the width extending in a second direction g from a port side of the watercraft to a
starboard side of the watercraft.
12. The transducer assembly of claim 11, wherein the array of the plurality of receive
ucer elements comprises at least 8 receive transducer elements.
13. The transducer assembly of claim 12, wherein the sonar signal processor is further
configured to:
sum the sonar return data from a up of the plurality of e transducer elements
to form second summed sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of receive
transducer ts is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements; and
generate second sonar image data based on the second summed sonar return data,
wherein the second sonar image data forms a second sonar image representing the underwater
environment.
14. The transducer assembly of claim 13, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of receive
transducer elements includes at least two receive transducer elements that are located generally
in the center of the array of e transducer elements.
. A system for imaging an ater environment, the system comprising:
a transducer assembly comprising:
at least one transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into
the underwater environment, wherein the at least one transmit transducer comprises an
array of a plurality of it transducer elements electrically connected in series,
wherein each of the plurality of it transducer elements comprises an emitting face,
wherein at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted with
respect to each other such that a tive emitting face of the at least two of the
ity of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different direction;
an array of a plurality of receive ucer elements, wherein the array of the
plurality of e transducer elements defines a length and a width with a ratio of the
length to the width being at least 3:1, wherein each of the plurality of receive transducer
elements is configured to receive sonar s from the sonar signals and form
corresponding sonar return data; and
a sonar signal processor configured to:
receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer
elements of the array;
sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of e transducer
elements to form summed sonar return data, n the subgroup of the plurality of
receive transducer elements is less than all of the plurality of receive transducer elements;
generate sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment; and
a marine electronic device comprising:
a user interface comprising a display;
a marine electronic device processor; and
a memory including computer program code configured to, with the marine
electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal processor; and
cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data,
wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a
watercraft such that the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements is
oriented rdly, with the length extending in a first direction that runs
generally parallel with a centerline of the watercraft and the width extending in a
second direction running from a port side of the raft to a starboard side of
the watercraft.
16. The system of claim 15, wherein the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements
comprises at least 8 receive transducer elements, and wherein the subgroup of the plurality of
receive transducer ts comprises at least two receive transducer elements.
17. The system of claim 15, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of receive ucer
elements includes at least two receive ucer elements that are located generally in the center
of the array of receive transducer elements.
18. The system of claim 15, wherein the sonar signal processor is further configured to:
sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of e transducer elements to form
second summed sonar return data; and
generate second sonar image data based on the second summed sonar return data,
wherein the second sonar image data forms a second sonar image enting the ater
environment.
19. The system of claim 18, wherein the computer program code is r configured to,
with the marine electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
enable selection by a user of at least the sonar image and the second sonar image;
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the sonar image, presentation of the sonar
image, based on the sonar image data; and
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the second sonar image, presentation of the
second sonar image, based on the second sonar image data.
. The system of claim 15, wherein the sonar signal processor is further configured to:
process the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements to
form two-dimensional (2D) or three-dimensional (3D) sonar return data; and
generate 2D or 3D sonar image data based on the 2D or 3D sonar return data, wherein the
2D or 3D sonar image data forms a 2D or 3D sonar image representing the underwater
environment.
21. The system of claim 20, wherein the computer program code is r configured to,
with the marine electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to:
enable selection by a user of at least the sonar image and the 2D or 3D sonar image;
cause, in response to receiving a selection of the sonar image, tation of the sonar
image, based on the sonar image data; and
cause, in response to ing a selection of the 2D or 3D sonar image, presentation of
the 2D or 3D sonar image, based on the 2D or 3D sonar image data.
22. The system of claim 15, wherein the sonar signal processor comprises a lexer such
that sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements can be selected
individually for summation.
23. The system of claim 15, wherein the sonar image forms a downward sonar image
representing a one-dimensional image of the ater environment h the watercraft.
24. A ucer assembly comprising:
at least one transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into the
underwater environment, wherein the at least one transmit transducer comprises an array of a
plurality of transmit transducer elements electrically ted in series, n each of the
plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an ng face, wherein at least two of the
ity of transmit transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a
respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements is
oriented in a different direction;
an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein the array of the plurality of
e transducer elements defines a length and a width with a ratio of the length to the width
being at least 3:1, n each of the plurality of receive transducer elements is configured to
receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form corresponding sonar return data; and
a sonar signal processor configured to:
receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive ucer
elements of the array;
sum the sonar return data from a subgroup of the plurality of e ucer
elements to form summed sonar return data, wherein the subgroup of the plurality of
receive transducer elements is less than all of the ity of receive transducer elements;
generate sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the
sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment,
wherein the transducer assembly is configured to be mounted to a watercraft such that the
array of the plurality of receive transducer elements is oriented downwardly, with the length
extending in a first direction that runs generally parallel with a centerline of the watercraft and
the width extending in a second direction running from a port side of the watercraft to a
starboard side of the watercraft.
. The system of claim 1 substantially as herein described with reference to figures 1 – 8
and/or examples.
26. The transducer assembly of claim 11 substantially as herein described with reference to
s 1 – 8 and/or examples.
27. The system of claim 15 substantially as herein described with reference to figures 1 – 8
and/or examples.
28. The transducer ly of claim 24 substantially as herein described with reference to
figures 1 – 8 and/or examples.
F E
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D E F G ? 4 4
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F K
E E F
D I 8 VO
Claims (1)
1. A system for imaging an underwater environment of a body of water, the system comprising: a transducer assembly comprising: at least one transmit transducer element configured to transmit sonar signals into the underwater environment, wherein the at least one transmit transducer comprises an array of a plurality of transmit transducer elements electrically connected in series, wherein each of the plurality of transmit transducer elements comprises an emitting face, wherein at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements are mounted with respect to each other such that a respective emitting face of the at least two of the plurality of transmit transducer elements is oriented in a different direction; an array of a plurality of receive transducer elements, wherein the array of the plurality of receive transducer elements defines a length and a width with a ratio of the length to the width being at least 3:1, wherein each of the plurality of receive transducer elements is configured to receive sonar returns from the sonar signals and form corresponding sonar return data; and a sonar signal processor configured to: receive the sonar return data from each of the plurality of receive transducer elements of the array; sum the sonar return data from all of the plurality of receive transducer elements to form summed sonar return data; and generate sonar image data based on the summed sonar return data, wherein the sonar image data forms a sonar image representing the underwater environment; and a marine electronic device comprising: a user interface comprising a display; a marine electronic device processor; and a memory including computer program code configured to, with the marine electronic device processor, cause the marine electronic device to: receive the sonar image data from the sonar signal processor; and cause presentation of the sonar image, based on the sonar image data,
Applications Claiming Priority (2)
Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
---|---|---|---|
US16/382,639 US11105922B2 (en) | 2018-02-28 | 2019-04-12 | Sonar transducer having geometric elements |
US16/382,639 | 2019-04-12 |
Publications (2)
Publication Number | Publication Date |
---|---|
NZ763333A NZ763333A (en) | 2022-03-25 |
NZ763333B2 true NZ763333B2 (en) | 2022-06-28 |
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