Fluidic sonar sensor
US5164919A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Dec 6, 1991 |
| Grant date | Nov 17, 1992 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Dec 6, 2011 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S367/901
- WIPO fieldMeasurement
- WIPO sectorInstruments
Abstract
A sonar sensor comprising a substantially non-corrodible housing and a fluidic gainblock disposed therein. In addition, one or more fluid-filled laminar proportional amplifiers are arranged either in series or in parallel and contained within the fluidic gainblock. Means are provided to produce a jet within each laminar proportional amplifier, which is then modulated by incoming acoustic signals. The pressure caused by diverting the jet from its equilibrium path is proportional to, but greater than, the incoming acoustic signal. Hydrophones are used to convert the amplified acoustic signal into an electrical signal. In one embodiment, the fluidic gainblock is free-flooded and open to the liquid environment in which it is used, obviating the need for pressure equalization. In another embodiment, the fluidic gainblock is provided with filtering means for prevent the accumulation of sediment within the cavities making up the laminar proportional amplifiers. In yet another embodiment, the fluidic gainblock is a closed-system which recirculates its fluid supply, increasing the sensor's operating life and isolating the laminar proportional amplifiers therein.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.