Beamforming sonar systems for 360-degree live sonar, and associated methods
US12306353B2 · kind B2 · utility
Assignee
Inventor
Key dates
| Filing date | Apr 28, 2023 |
| Grant date | May 20, 2025 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Oct 13, 2043 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC G)Physics
- CPC primaryG01S15/96
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A system is provided for imaging an underwater environment. The system includes at least six arrays of transducer elements. Each array is operated at a fixed phase shift and varies in frequency so as to beamform multiple sonar return beams of a first range of angles and a second range of angles. The arrays can be oriented to create arcs of sonar coverage extending at various angles from a watercraft. Accordingly, the at least six arrays can be positioned in a configuration such that a 360-degree live sonar image can be formed. Additionally or alternatively, the at least six arrays can be used to form partial (i.e., less than 360-degree) live sonar images, and the partial live sonar images can be updated or adjusted based on user input and/or desired object(s).
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.