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).
A system is provided for controlling operations of at least two motors on a watercraft on a body of water. The system comprises a kicker motor, a trolling motor, one or more processors, and memory including computer program code. The computer program code is configured to, when executed, cause the one or more processors to receive an indication regarding a current mode of operation for the watercraft, determine, based on the current mode, a first setting for the kicker motor, and determine, based on the current mode, a second setting for the trolling motor. The computer program code is also configured to, when executed, cause the one or more processors to cause (i) the kicker motor to operate according to the first setting, and (ii) the trolling motor to operate according to the second setting so as to cause the watercraft to operate according to the current mode.
A system is provided for determining an angular offset for a device attached to a watercraft. The system comprises an electronic device including a camera, one or more processors, and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code is configured to, when executed, cause the one or more processors to determine, based on an image via the camera, a first direction associated with the watercraft. The image includes at least a portion of the watercraft and at least a portion of the device mounted to the watercraft. The computer program code is also configured to, when executed, determine, based on the image via the camera, a second direction associated with the device, determine an angular offset between the first direction and the second direction, and store an indication of the angular offset in the memory for use with one or more functions associated with the device.
B63B 79/30 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for diagnosing, testing or predicting the integrity or performance of vessels
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
B63H 20/00 - Outboard propulsion units, e.g. outboard motors or Z-drivesArrangements thereof on vessels
Example devices, systems and methods are provided for operating a marine electronic device for a watercraft to determine a drawn zone based on a user input. Some example systems include a user interface comprising a touch screen, a processor and a memory having computer program code stored thereon. The marine electronic device is configured to cause one of a chart, a sonar image, or a radar image to be displayed on the touch screen and to receive, via the touch screen, a user input defining a continuous touch pattern directed to the one of the chart, the sonar image, or the radar image. The marine electronic device is further configured to determine, based on the user input, a drawn zone of the one of the chart, the sonar image, or the radar image and determine a drawn zone functionality associated with the user input.
An unmanned device for a marine environment comprises a location sensor configured to gather location data corresponding to the unmanned device; at least one propulsion system; a transmitter and memory including computer program code. The computer program code is configured to, when executed, cause the processor to cause the propulsion system to propel the unmanned device in a pattern along the body of water, cause the sonar transducer to emit the one or more sonar beams into the body of water, receive sonar return data corresponding to sonar returns, and generate a sonar image corresponding to the sonar return data. Further, the computer program code is configured to cause the processor to detect an object within the sonar image, assign a score to the object indicating the likelihood that the object is a desired object type, and send an alert to the remote electronics device upon assignment of the score.
G05D 111/20 - Acoustic signals, e.g. ultrasonic signals
G06F 16/587 - Retrieval characterised by using metadata, e.g. metadata not derived from the content or metadata generated manually using geographical or spatial information, e.g. location
A method for forming a sonar image is provided comprising receiving first sonar data from a sonar transducer assembly when it is oriented in a first orientation, receiving first orientation data, and causing an actuator to generate movement of the sonar transducer assembly so it moves from the first orientation to a second orientation. The method includes receiving second sonar data from the sonar transducer assembly when it is oriented in the second orientation, receiving second orientation data, and creating a sonar image using the first sonar data, the second sonar data, the first orientation data, and the second orientation data. The sonar image includes first and second image portions including image data representative of the first and second sonar data. The first image portion is positioned relative to the second image portion to portray a real-world differential position of the first sonar data relative to the second sonar data.
Example devices, systems and methods are provided for causing presentation of a timer on a screen of a marine electronic device for a watercraft. Some example systems include a user interface comprising the screen, a memory including computer executable instructions and a processor. The marine electronic device is configured to receive a user input defining one or more users and a total amount of time for a marine-based activity and determine a specified amount of time to be assigned to each of the one or more users. The marine electronic device is further configured to assign the specified amount of time to each of the one or more users, display an indication of the specified amount of time within the timer for each of the one or more users, and provide a notification when the specified amount of time of a current user from the one or more users ends.
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
B63B 79/15 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers for monitoring environmental variables, e.g. wave height or weather data
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
8.
Bracket for multiple sonar transducer array housings
Example systems, devices, and methods are provided for causing displays on screens. Some such systems include a memory and a processor. The processor may be configured to cause display of a marine image formed from at least one of radar data or sonar data on a screen, receive live data including at least one of a live sonar feed or a live camera feed from a marine device, determine a location corresponding to the live data, determine a position within the marine image that represents the location, and cause display of the live data at the position on the screen such that the display of the live data overlays the position within the marine image.
G01S 13/89 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
G01S 15/96 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for locating fish
G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
G10K 11/00 - Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in generalMethods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
11.
SONAR SYSTEM INCLUDING TRANSDUCER ELEMENTS WITH A GAP THEREBETWEEN
Sonar systems and related methods are provided. A sonar system for generating one or more sonar images includes first and second transducer elements each having at least one emitting face. The sonar system also includes a sonar signal processor in electronic communication with the first and second transducer elements to cause transmission of signals from the first and second transducer elements to cause at least one first acoustic beam to be emitted from the first emitting face in a first beam direction and at least one second acoustic beam to be emitted from the second emitting face in a second beam direction. The first and second transducer elements are positioned such that a gap is formed therebetween. The gap is configured to facilitate movement of a fluid therein so as to contribute to an emission of sound power in both the first beam direction and the second beam direction.
A system for the enhancement of sonar data is provided comprising one or more processors, a memory, and one or more sonar transducer assemblies configured to provide sonar data. The memory includes computer program code configured to, when executed, cause the processor(s) to receive the sonar data, with the sonar data providing information representative of an underwater environment around a watercraft. The computer program code is also configured to, when executed, cause the processor(s) to perform adaptive contrast image processing to adjust a brightness level or color of the sonar data at one or more locations and to form adjusted sonar data. Adaptive contrast image processing considers a distance of a location from a sonar transducer assembly of the one or more sonar transducer assemblies, a brightness level, color, water clarity, or depth associated with a location, an object type, or an orientation or surface properties of the object.
G01S 7/539 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group using analysis of echo signal for target characterisationTarget signatureTarget cross-section
G01S 15/89 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
13.
DEVICES AND SYSTEMS FOR MOUNTING A TRANSDUCER WITHIN A WATERCRAFT HULL
Example devices and systems are provided herein for mounting a transducer within a hull of a watercraft. Such devices and systems include a housing with a base and at least one wall defining an interior volume, along with a mount assembly within the interior volume. The mount assembly includes a buoy, a transducer, and a pivot axle or a gimbal. The mount assembly is freely pivotable about a pivot axis of the pivot axle or about a pivot point of the gimbal such that an orientation of the mount assembly is subject to a force of gravity. The housing and the mount assembly is configured such that an emitting face of the transducer points in a direction that is parallel to the force of gravity when the housing is tilted, such as toward a floor of the water.
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
B63B 17/00 - Vessels parts, details, or accessories, not otherwise provided for
14.
BEAMFORMING SONAR SYSTEM WITH IMPROVED SONAR IMAGE FUNCTIONALITY, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS
A system is provided for imaging an underwater environment. The system includes one or more 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 cover the gap in sonar coverage for other arrays to create a continuous arc of sonar coverage. Accordingly, a 2D live sonar image can be formed. One or more of the multiple sonar return beams facing downwardly can be selected and used to form downward sonar images that anglers are used to, without requiring separate transducer elements. Fish arches formed using multiple sonar return beams can be positioned appropriately within a high resolution downward sonar image to form a desirable combined sonar image.
Example systems and methods are provided herein for providing for a controlled shutdown of a marine electronic device. Such marine electronic devices include a main unit, a power input in connection with the main unit, and a secondary unit configured to store energy for processing sonar data. The power input is configured to provide energy to the main unit, and the secondary unit is connectable to the main unit to provide stored energy to the main unit. Also included is a processor configured to determine whether the power input is providing energy within a predetermined threshold to the main unit and then, in response to a determination that the power input is not providing energy within the predetermined threshold to the main unit, cause the secondary unit to provide the stored energy to the main unit.
H02J 9/06 - Circuit arrangements for emergency or stand-by power supply, e.g. for emergency lighting in which the distribution system is disconnected from the normal source and connected to a standby source with automatic change-over
B60R 16/033 - Electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided forArrangement of elements of electric or fluid circuits specially adapted for vehicles and not otherwise provided for electric for supply of electrical power to vehicle subsystems characterised by the use of electrical cells or batteries
G01S 15/89 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
H02H 7/20 - Emergency protective circuit arrangements specially adapted for specific types of electric machines or apparatus or for sectionalised protection of cable or line systems, and effecting automatic switching in the event of an undesired change from normal working conditions for electronic equipment
H02J 9/00 - Circuit arrangements for emergency or stand-by power supply, e.g. for emergency lighting
16.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR GENERATING ROUTES FOR WATERCRAFT
Example systems and methods are provided herein for generating paths for watercraft. Such systems include a memory and a processor, and the processor is configured to determine a set of condition parameters that each correspond to desired conditions for a potential navigation path, select at least one condition parameter from the set of condition parameters, and then determine and apply a constraint relaxation to the selected condition parameter(s) to form constraint relaxed condition parameter(s), each of which increases a range of input values that satisfy the corresponding desired conditions for the potential navigation path. The processor is also configured to determine a region based on an updated set of condition parameters, including the constraint relaxed condition parameter, and then to determine a navigation path within the region.
Systems and methods for installing an application on a multi-function device which is not internet enabled are provided herein. The system comprises an internet enabled device comprising a processor, a display, and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code is configured to receive user input indicating the selection of an application, and download a file comprising application data. The system further includes a multi-function device being remotely located from the internet enabled device. The multi-function device comprises a processor, a display and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code is configured to cause the processor to engage in data communication with the internet enabled device, receive the file comprising the application data, install the application within the memory, and cause, on the display of the multi-function device, presentation of an interface that enables user interfacing with the underlying application function of the application.
H04L 67/06 - Protocols specially adapted for file transfer, e.g. file transfer protocol [FTP]
H04L 67/12 - Protocols specially adapted for proprietary or special-purpose networking environments, e.g. medical networks, sensor networks, networks in vehicles or remote metering networks
18.
AUGMENTED REALITY INFORMATION FOR A MARINE ENVIRONMENT
A system is provided for overlaying representation(s) of a location of interest on an image of an environment around a watercraft. The system includes an electronic device having a display, at least one processor, a camera, and a memory having software instructions stored thereon. When executed by the processor(s), the software instructions cause the processor(s) to receive location and orientation information; cause, based on camera data received from the camera, presentation of the image of the environment; determine a field of view for the camera that includes the environment; identify a location of interest or a representation for the location of interest corresponding to the field of view; cause the representation of the location of interest to be overlayed onto the image to generate an augmented reality image; receive an input requesting further information for the location of interest; and cause presentation of additional information about the location of interest.
Example systems and methods are provided herein for managing a position of a first watercraft relative to a second watercraft during a desired maneuver. Such systems include a memory and a processor, and the processor is configured to determine a desired relative positioning of the first watercraft to the second watercraft, determine a first position of the first watercraft, determine a first position of the second watercraft, and then determine a desired second position of the second watercraft such that the first watercraft and the second watercraft comply with the desired relative positioning when the second watercraft is in the desired second position. The processor is also configured to determine instructions to cause the second watercraft to move to the desired second position and then to cause the second watercraft to move to the desired second position.
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
B63B 79/15 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers for monitoring environmental variables, e.g. wave height or weather data
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
20.
SYSTEMS AND METHODS FOR CONTROLLING OPERATIONS OF MARINE VESSELS
Systems, assemblies, and methods for conveniently operating marine devices associated with a watercraft are provided herein. An example system includes a controller, a sensor module, and a marine device. The controller is configured to receive a user input indicating a desired action via the sensor module and transmit a signal to the marine device to cause the marine device to operate in a particular manner. The sensor module may include one or more motion sensors, and the controller may be configured to filter unintentional movement from the raw motion data sensed by the sensor module, such as due to movement of the watercraft floating on the surface of the water. Thus, the system may enable convenient and intuitive control over various marine devices associated with the watercraft.
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
G06T 7/73 - Determining position or orientation of objects or cameras using feature-based methods
G06V 40/20 - Movements or behaviour, e.g. gesture recognition
21.
Beamforming sonar systems for 360-degree live sonar, and associated methods
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).
A method for forming updated map data and for using the updated map data to assist in docking the watercraft is provided. The method includes receiving first radar data from radar. First radar data is associated with a first coverage area. The method includes generating initial map data regarding features of the environment around the watercraft based on the first radar data. The method includes receiving second radar data associated with a location within the first coverage area from the radar. The first and second radar data are different. The method includes updating initial map data based on the second radar data to form updated map data and generating a docking operation using updated map data. The docking operation comprises causing presentation of a docking view illustrating a watercraft representation and a desired docking position and/or generating navigation instruction(s) for causing the watercraft to be repositioned.
A method for refining global navigation satellite system (GNSS) data for a watercraft is provided. The method includes receiving, from a global navigation satellite system (GNSS) mounted to the watercraft, the GNSS data. The method also includes receiving radar data from a radar mounted to the watercraft, creating adjusted data using at least the radar data and the GNSS data, and applying the adjusted data by taking an action. The action comprises at least one of performing a docking operation with the adjusted data, automatically navigating the watercraft using the adjusted data, causing presentation of an alert or other indication regarding the adjusted data, or updating a chart to form an updated chart and causing presentation of the updated chart on a display.
G01S 19/46 - Determining position by combining measurements of signals from the satellite radio beacon positioning system with a supplementary measurement the supplementary measurement being of a radio-wave signal type
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
G01S 13/937 - Radar or analogous systems, specially adapted for specific applications for anti-collision purposes of marine craft
G01S 19/39 - Determining a navigation solution using signals transmitted by a satellite radio beacon positioning system the satellite radio beacon positioning system transmitting time-stamped messages, e.g. GPS [Global Positioning System], GLONASS [Global Orbiting Navigation Satellite System] or GALILEO
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
Sonar systems and related methods are provided. A sonar system includes a transducer array having a transverse axis and a longitudinal axis disposed perpendicularly thereto. A processor is operative to associate signals with a plurality of transducers in the transducer array so as to form a first acoustic beam, which propagates in a beam first direction and has a first beam width in a first transverse plane. The first transverse plane extends along the beam first direction and contains the transverse axis of the transducer array. A beam directing and/or spreading device is positioned relative to the transducer array such that the first acoustic beam impinges on a surface of the beam directing and/or spreading device. Following impingement on the surface, the first acoustic beam propagates in a beam second direction.
Example systems and methods are provided herein for stabilizing a watercraft during a turn of the watercraft. Such systems include a navigation assembly and a stabilization mechanism configured to apply forces to maintain the watercraft within a relative orientation with a body of water. The systems also include a memory and a processor, and the processor is configured to receive data from the navigation assembly to determine when a turn is being made or will be made, determine and apply an adjustment to the stabilization mechanism, and cause the adjustment to be applied to the stabilization mechanism.
B63B 39/06 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude to decrease vessel movements by using foils acting on ambient water
B63B 39/03 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude to decrease vessel movements by displacement of masses by transferring liquids
B63B 39/04 - Equipment to decrease pitch, roll, or like unwanted vessel movementsApparatus for indicating vessel attitude to decrease vessel movements by using gyroscopes directly
Systems and methods for presenting marine data are provided herein. The system comprises at least one sonar transducer associated with a watercraft, a display, one or more processors and a memory. The memory including computer program code configured to cause presentation of a chart on the display including at least a portion of the body of water, at a first zoom level. The system further causes emission of one or more sonar beams by the at least one sonar transducer and receives sonar data corresponding to the sonar returns received by the at least one sonar transducer. The system generates and presents a sonar image based on a sonar image scale. The system automatically adjusts the presentation of the chart to a second zoom level that corresponds to the sonar image scale. The second zoom level being different than the first zoom level.
Trolling motor assemblies and systems employing a fuse for protection of components thereof are provided herein. A trolling motor assembly comprises a shaft, a trolling motor housing, and a main housing. A belt extends between the trolling motor housing and the main housing. A fuse is positioned in at least one of the main housing or the trolling motor housing, and is configured to reduce stress from the shaft applying a force to the belt.
Systems and methods are provided herein for creating and displaying wayareas on a screen. A system includes a memory and a processor, and the processor is configured to retrieve a plurality of waypoints from the memory. Each of the plurality of waypoints is associated with a location and one or more waypoint characteristics, which include at least one of weather data, season data, time of day data, tide data or depth data. The plurality of waypoints are presented on the screen and a desired set of waypoints are determined based on either a filtering process or user input. A wayarea is created from the desired set of waypoints and then saved to the memory. The system also displays a plurality of wayareas on the screen, each as highlighted shapes, and the plurality of wayareas may be filtered based on certain characteristics.
Systems and methods for presenting marine data are provided herein. The system comprises a sensor, a display, at least one processor, and computer program code. The computer program code is configured to, when executed by the at least one processor, cause, on the display, presentation of at least one image. The at least one image covers a first area of the display extending at least partially across the display. The computer program code further determines, based on data from the sensor, a presence of a user within a sensing zone. The computer program code further causes, on the display, in response to detecting the presence of the user within the sensing zone, an interactive menu to be presented within at least a portion of the first area of the display.
Example systems and methods are provided herein for controlling a watercraft in response to a bite on a fishing line. A system includes a memory and a processor, and the processor is configured to receive data via user input or one or more sensors to determine whether a fish has bitten on a fishing line. In response to a determination that the fish has bitten on the fishing line, the processor causes the watercraft to operate according to a fish-on operation, which includes at least one of altering a speed of the watercraft, altering a direction of the watercraft, altering a rate of change of the speed of the watercraft, altering a direction of a trolling motor, notifying other watercrafts, or engaging an autopilot to navigate the watercraft according to a preset route. The fish-on operation is designed to aid a user in catching the fish.
Trolling motor assemblies, systems, and methods configured for prevention of ice buildup are provided herein. A trolling motor assembly has a trolling motor with a shaft, a head housing, and a trolling motor housing. One or more actuators are configured to adjust at least one of a pointing direction or a depth of the trolling motor housing relative to the watercraft. The trolling motor has a processor and a memory including code configured to cause the processor to activate the one or more actuators to cause automatic execution of a movement routine. The movement routine at least temporarily adjusts at least one of the depth or the pointing direction of the trolling motor housing to reduce a likelihood of ice buildup. Various assemblies, systems, and methods are also applicable to steerable and/or movable sonar transducer assemblies.
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
B63H 20/00 - Outboard propulsion units, e.g. outboard motors or Z-drivesArrangements thereof on vessels
B63H 20/10 - Means enabling trim or tilt, or lifting of the propulsion element when an obstruction is hitControl of trim or tilt
A trolling motor assembly having improved shock absorption is provided. The trolling motor assembly includes a trolling motor, a first member, a second member, an actuator that is configured to be activated to cause the trolling motor to move between a first position and a second position, and a compliant member connected to the actuator. When the trolling motor is in a first position, the first member dampens shock loading at the actuator or transfers shock loading to a first shock absorber to dampen shock loading. When the trolling motor is in a second position, the second member dampens shock loading at the actuator or transfers shock loading to at least one of the first shock absorber or a second shock absorber to dampen shock loading. The compliant member dampens shock loading to protect the actuator from shock loading as the trolling motor moves between the first and second position.
A system is provided for updating user interfaces of marine electronic devices. The system includes determining available devices and receiving user input to determine information such as fishing location, fishing style, fish type, and fishing depth. The system also includes determining a plurality of screen setups to present to a user based on the received user input and the determined available devices. The system then enables selection from among the plurality of screen setups by the user and causes the marine electronic device to operate according to the selected screen setup. The system may optimize settings based on the user input. Further, a system is provided for connecting an unconnected device to a marine electronic device. A system is also provided for communicating information about an unconnected device on a watercraft to a user.
In non-limiting examples of the present disclosure, systems and methods for dynamically updating contour maps are provided. A first water level for a body of water may be determined by a computing device. A location within the body of water may be identified. A second water level relating to the identified location within the body of water may be determined, and the second water level and the first water level may be compared. Upon comparing the first and second water levels, a contour map for the body of water may be automatically updated.
A radar device is provided. The radar device includes an antenna and a housing having an exterior wall. The radar device also includes an electronics module having a heat source contained within the housing. Additionally, the radar device includes a heat pipe having a first end and a second end. The first end is positioned proximate to the heat source, and the heat pipe is configured to transfer heat from the first end of the heat pipe to the second end of the heat pipe to reduce an amount of heat at the heat source. The heat pipe may be an evaporator-condenser heat pipe. The second end of the heat pipe may be positioned proximate to a first dissipating feature. The heat source may be a power amplifier, waveguide assembly, printed circuit board, or other electronics, and the first dissipating feature may be the exterior wall of the housing.
A reflective sonar imaging system is provided. The system includes a reflective sonar imaging assembly. The reflective sonar imaging assembly includes a receiving aperture, a reflective surface defining a concave shape, and a receiver positioned between the reflective surface and the receiving aperture. The system also includes a display and processing circuitry. The reflective surface is configured to cause sonar returns to be reflected as reflected sonar returns toward the receiver. The sonar returns enter the reflective sonar imaging assembly through the receiving aperture, and the receiver is configured to receive the reflected sonar returns. The receiver is configured to generate sonar return data using the reflected sonar returns that are received, and the processing circuitry is configured to receive the sonar return data and generate one or more sonar images based on the sonar return data. The display is configured to present the sonar image(s).
A sonar transducer system is provided having a display and a sonar transducer assembly having a transmitter configured to transmit sonar signals. The transmitter has a peak transmit sensitivity occurring at a first frequency. The sonar transducer assembly has a receiver configured to receive return sonar signals, with the receiver having a peak receive sensitivity occurring at a second frequency. The transmitter and the receiver share a same facing direction and are provided as physically separate components. At least one of the transmitter or the receiver is tuned so that the peak transmit sensitivity and the peak receive sensitivity occur at a same frequency. The sonar transducer assembly is configured to improve the peak transmit sensitivity and/or the peak receive sensitivity to generate a sonar image having a greater quality, and the sonar image may be presented on the display.
A system for a marine vessel propelled by a propulsion device includes a controller operable in an automatic navigation mode in which the controller automatically controls a thrust of the propulsion device to propel the marine vessel through a body of water. A portable device is carried on an individual on the marine vessel. The controller enables a person overboard detection algorithm in response to enablement of the automatic navigation mode. The person overboard detection algorithm disables the automatic navigation mode in response to detecting a given status of the portable device.
A62B 35/00 - Safety belts or body harnessesSimilar equipment for limiting displacement of the human body, especially in case of sudden changes of motion
B63H 21/21 - Control means for engine or transmission, specially adapted for use on marine vessels
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
G08B 21/08 - Alarms for ensuring the safety of persons responsive to the presence of persons in a body of water, e.g. a swimming poolAlarms for ensuring the safety of persons responsive to an abnormal condition of a body of water
A system for presenting environment alerts for a watercraft is provided. The system includes a display, a processor, and a memory having computer program code. The computer program code is configured to, when executed, cause the processor to receive position data for the watercraft including a current watercraft position, receive environment data, determine a status of the watercraft at the current watercraft position, perform an analysis of the position data, the environment data, and the status of the watercraft, determine a notification based on the analysis, and cause presentation of the notification on the display. The notification is related to the environment data or the status of the watercraft at the current watercraft position.
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
B63B 79/15 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers for monitoring environmental variables, e.g. wave height or weather data
A sonar system is provided for generating live sonar images having an expanded coverage angle. The sonar system includes a first sonar transducer assembly defining a first facing direction and having array(s) of sonar transducer elements and a second sonar transducer assembly defining a second facing direction and having array(s) of sonar transducer elements. The sonar system includes processor(s) and a memory including computer program code configured to, when executed, cause the processor(s) to receive first and second sonar return data from the first and second plurality of sonar transducer assemblies, receive first and second facing direction data for the first and second sonar transducer assemblies, position first and second sonar return data based on the first and second facing direction data to form positioned first and second sonar return data, and generate a live sonar image of the underwater environment using the positioned first and second sonar return data.
A system for making dynamic routing decisions for a watercraft is provided. The system includes sensor(s) located on the watercraft that are configured to provide sensor data. The system also includes a processor and a memory including computer program code. When executed, the computer program code is configured to cause the processor to receive the sensor data; create a weather profile based on the sensor data, with the weather profile being specific to a current position of the watercraft; and determine watercraft operation change(s) based on the weather profile. The watercraft operation change(s) includes, for example, a change in speed for the watercraft, a change in power level at a motor, a change in direction of the watercraft, a change in direction for the motor, rotation of a rudder, raising the motor, lowering the motor, rotation of a sail, raising other underwater components, or lowering the other underwater components.
G01C 21/00 - NavigationNavigational instruments not provided for in groups
G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
Systems and method for providing navigational control of a watercraft are provided herein. The system comprises a display, processor and memory. The memory including computer program code is configured to cause presentation of a chart on the display including at least a portion of the body of water. The system further receives user input indicating initiation of a drift protocol, including indication of a boundary area for which the watercraft will drift through, and causes presentation of the boundary area on the chart. The system determines an instance when the watercraft drifts outside of the boundary area and provides an alert when the watercraft exits or nears the boundary area. The system determines a starting position corresponding to the boundary area and engages an autopilot to cause the watercraft to navigate to the starting position or provides instructions to enable the user to navigate the watercraft to the starting position.
A system is provided for updating user interfaces of marine electronic devices. The system includes determining available devices and receiving user input to determine information such as fishing location, fishing style, fish type, and fishing depth. The system also includes determining a plurality of screen setups to present to a user based on the received user input and the determined available devices. The system then enables selection from among the plurality of screen setups by the user and causes the marine electronic device to operate according to the selected screen setup. The system may optimize settings based on the user input. Further, a system is provided for connecting an unconnected device to a marine electronic device. A system is also provided for communicating information about an unconnected device on a watercraft to a user.
A system for presenting marine data is provided herein. At least one sonar transducer is configured to emit one or more sonar beams into an underwater environment of a body of water in a direction relative to a watercraft. The system comprises a display, processor and memory including computer program code. The code is configured to, when executed, cause the processor to determine a location associated with travel of the watercraft, and determine a depth of the body of water at the location. The system determines a power output for emitting the sonar beams and emits the sonar beams at the power output such that the sonar transducer receives sonar returns at the depth. The system generates a sonar image corresponding to the sonar returns received by the sonar transducer, and causes, on the display, presentation of the sonar image.
A trolling motor assembly including a main housing and a shaft rotatably coupled therewith. The shaft is rotatable through a first angular displacement about its longitudinal axis that exceeds 360 degrees. A first gear coupled with the shaft is rotatable about the longitudinal axis. A second gear coupled with the first gear has an axis of rotation spaced apart from the longitudinal axis and is rotatable through a second angular displacement that exceeds the first angular displacement. A plurality of discs coupled with the second gear are rotatable about the axis of rotation relative to one another and to the second gear. A first disc defines a first stop that is rotatable into and out of engagement with a second stop coupled with the second gear. A second disc defines a third stop that is rotatable into and out of engagement with a fourth stop coupled with the main housing.
F16H 19/08 - Gearings comprising essentially only toothed gears or friction members and not capable of conveying indefinitely-continuing rotary motion for interconverting rotary motion and oscillating motion
A synchronization wire for synchronizing sonar ping transmissions from sonar transducer elements or arrays is provided. The synchronization wire includes first and second connection points. The first connection point is configured to connect the synchronization wire to a first sonar module that is configured to control transmission of a first sonar ping from a first sonar transducer. The second connection point is configured to connect the synchronization wire to a second sonar module that is configured to control transmission of a second sonar ping from a second sonar transducer. The synchronization wire is configured to transfer an electrical current between the first and second sonar modules. The synchronization wire is configured to enable synchronization of the first and second sonar modules through the use of the electrical current. Processing circuitry in sonar modules may cause or prevent transmission of sonar pings based on the voltage level on the synchronization wire.
A marine electronics device for a watercraft is presented herein. The marine electronic device comprises a user interface comprising a display, a processor and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code causes the processor to receive data associated with a fish, including an indication of a characteristic value of weight of the fish or length of the fish. Each fish within the livewell is assigned a culling tag and has a stored characteristic value. A threshold characteristic amount associated with a livewell is determined, wherein the threshold characteristic is equal to a minimum characteristic value of a fish within the livewell. If a characteristic value of a caught fish exceeds the threshold characteristic amount, a culling tag is assigned to the fish.
A sonar system for a watercraft is provided. The sonar system includes a sonar assembly configured to attach to the watercraft. The sonar assembly includes one or more sonar transducers elements configured to transmit one or more sonar beams into an underwater environment relative to a facing direction dictating a coverage volume of the one or more sonar beams. The sonar assembly includes a display, one or more processors and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code causes the one or more sonar transducer elements to emit one or more sonar beams defining the coverage volume, receive sonar return data, determine a position of the lure, adjust the facing direction of the sonar assembly to position the lure within the coverage volume, and cause presentation of a sonar image corresponding to the coverage volume of the underwater environment and including a representation of the lure.
A sonar transducer assembly for controlling sonar beam shapes is provided. The sonar transducer assembly comprises a sonar transducer element having an emitting face. The sonar transducer element is configured to generate a sonar beam having a path. The sonar transducer element is configured to operate at an operating frequency, and the sonar transducer element possesses a sensitivity. The sonar transducer assembly also comprises a horn having a first diffraction element and a second diffraction element. The first diffraction element and the second diffraction element are configured to increase the sensitivity of the sonar transducer element when the sonar transducer element is operated at the operating frequency. Additionally, the horn is positioned so that the first diffraction element and the second diffraction element rest within the path of the sonar beam. The horn is configured to reform a beam shape of the sonar beam.
Sonar systems and related methods are provided. A sonar system includes a transducer array having a transverse axis and a longitudinal axis disposed perpendicularly thereto. A processor is operative to associate signals with a plurality of transducers in the transducer array so as to form a first acoustic beam, which propagates in a beam first direction and has a first beam width in a first transverse plane. The first transverse plane extends along the beam first direction and contains the transverse axis of the transducer array. A beam directing and/or spreading device is positioned relative to the transducer array such that the first acoustic beam impinges on a surface of the beam directing and/or spreading device. Following impingement on the surface, the first acoustic beam propagates in a beam second direction.
A guide system is provided for use in mounting of a sonar transducer assembly or housing. The guide system includes a gauge having horizontal lines marked thereon. The horizontal lines indicate appropriate tab positions corresponding to hull angles of a watercraft. The guide system also includes a reference tab configured to be positioned on the gauge at an appropriate tab position corresponding to an estimated hull angle to indicate a correct sonar transducer assembly or housing position. Sloped lines may be marked on the gauge, and the sloped lines may extend at different slopes and may be configured to provide the estimated hull angle of the watercraft when the user aligns one of the sloped lines with a bottom edge of the hull of the watercraft at a position corresponding to the position where the sonar transducer assembly or housing will be mounted to the hull.
G01B 5/25 - Measuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for measuring angles or tapersMeasuring arrangements characterised by the use of mechanical techniques for testing the alignment of axes for testing the alignment of axes
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
Systems and methods for indicating a navigable area that is reachable by a watercraft with a current amount of energy is provided. The system comprises a display, a processor and a memory, including a computer code configured to, when executed by the processor, cause the system to receive position data indicating a current geographic location of a watercraft; receive tidal data for the current geographic location of the watercraft; determine, based on energy remaining data, an estimated available travel distance for operating a motor of the watercraft before the watercraft runs out of energy; and generate an overlay for a chart. The overlay comprises a boundary area corresponding to the estimated available travel distance and the effect of the tide on the watercraft. The computer code further presents the overlay on the chart to visually indicate travel options from the current geographic location.
B63B 79/15 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers for monitoring environmental variables, e.g. wave height or weather data
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
B63B 79/00 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation
A system for reforming sonar emissions from a sonar transducer element or an array of sonar transducer elements is provided. The system comprises the sonar transducer element or the array of sonar transducer elements. The sonar transducer element or the array of sonar transducer elements define an emitting face and are configured to transmit sonar signals along path(s). The system also comprises a horn comprising surface(s). Surface(s) are positioned adjacent to or in a spaced apart manner from the emitting face of the sonar transducer element or the array of sonar transducer elements so that the surface(s) are positioned at least partially in path(s) such that at least some of the sonar signals transmitted from the sonar transducer element or the array of sonar transducer elements are redirected based on interaction of the at least some of the sonar signals and surface(s).
Many different types of systems are utilized or tasks are performed in a marine environment. The present invention provides various configurations of unmanned vehicles, or drones, that can be operated and/or controlled for such systems or tasks. One or more unmanned vehicles can be integrated with a dedicated marine electronic device of a marine vessel for autonomous control and operation. Additionally or alternatively, the unmanned vehicle can be manually remote operated during use in the marine environment. Such unmanned vehicles can be utilized in many different marine environment systems or tasks, including, for example, navigation, sonar, radar, search and rescue, video streaming, alert functionality, among many others. However, as contemplated by the present invention, the marine environment provides many unique challenges that may be accounted for with operation and control of an unmanned vehicle.
B64U 101/32 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for imaging, photography or videography for cartography or topography
B64U 101/66 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting passengersUAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons for parcel delivery or retrieval for retrieving parcels
A system for locking a trolling motor assembly in a stowed position on a watercraft is provided herein. The system comprises a trolling motor assembly attached to the watercraft, wherein the trolling motor assembly is movable between the stowed position and a deployed position. The system further includes a locking mechanism mounted to the watercraft and configured to interact with the trolling motor assembly when the trolling motor assembly is in the stowed position. The locking mechanism defines a locked state and an unlocked state and is configured to transition between the states. The system additionally includes a controller having a memory including program code configured to, when executed, cause a processor to determine an instance in which to transition the locking mechanism from the locked state to the unlocked state and, in response, cause the locking mechanism to transition from the locked state to the unlocked state.
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
B63H 20/00 - Outboard propulsion units, e.g. outboard motors or Z-drivesArrangements thereof on vessels
Methods and systems described herein can assist a user when loading a watercraft onto a trailer (e.g., at a boat ramp). For example, position data generated by sensor(s) coupled to the watercraft and/or trailer can cause one or more propulsion devices associated with the watercraft to automatically (e.g., without user intervention) position the watercraft onto the trailer, for example, by controlling the power and/or thrust direction of the propulsion device(s).
Systems and methods for conveniently providing anchoring assistance onboard a watercraft are provided herein. An example system includes a display and a processor in communication with a marine system. The processor is configured to receive marine data from the marine system and/or one or more user inputs and cause the display to show one or more anchoring locations with visual indications of the anchorage quality index based on at least the marine data and/or user inputs. The one or more anchoring locations may be shown as a heat map overlaid on a map. The system may use real-time marine data, environmental data, weather data, tide data, etc. to dynamically adjust the anchoring locations and anchorage quality index. The system may enable convenient and helpful suggestions and notifications to the user when anchoring a watercraft. Some examples provide automatic deployment of an anchoring system and monitoring of a current anchoring.
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
B63B 79/15 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers for monitoring environmental variables, e.g. wave height or weather data
G01C 21/20 - Instruments for performing navigational calculations
B63G 8/38 - Arrangement of visual or electronic watch equipment, e.g. of periscopes, of radar
G08G 3/00 - Traffic control systems for marine craft
65.
DEVICE FOR STEERING A TROLLING MOTOR AND METHOD OF THE SAME
A device for steering a trolling motor of a watercraft is provided. The device comprises a housing and a joystick attached to the housing, pivotably supported for movement from a neutral position in directions radial to an axis of the joystick. The movement from the neutral position generates a steering command for the trolling motor. The device has a transmitter within the housing and a processor communicatively coupled to the transmitter and the joystick. The device may further include a memory including a computer program code. The computer program code is configured when executed by the processor to receive movement data from the joystick, generate a steering command from the movement data, and transmit the steering command to the trolling motor. The steering command causes the trolling motor to rotate to aim in the steer direction to cause the watercraft to travel based on the joystick movement.
A radar device for limiting radio-frequency power leakage is provided. The radar device includes a first component, and a second component. The first component has a first surface and a first waveguide that defines a first cavity. The second component has a second surface and a second waveguide that defines a second cavity. A first groove is provided that acts as a choke, and the first groove is defined in the first surface. The first component and the second component are assembled so that an air gap is maintained between the first waveguide and the second waveguide. The first waveguide and the second waveguide are configured to facilitate transmission of radio-frequency power. The first groove is configured to reduce leakage of radio-frequency power through the air gap. Additional chokes may also be included.
Many different types of systems are utilized and tasks are performed in a marine environment. The present invention provides various configurations of castable devices that can be operated and/or controlled for such systems or tasks. One or more castable devices can be integrated with a transducer assembly, such as a phased array, that emits sonar beams and receives sonar returns from the underwater environment. Processing circuitry may receive the sonar returns, process the sonar returns, generate an image, and transmit the image to a display.
G05D 1/02 - Control of position or course in two dimensions
B63B 34/00 - Vessels specially adapted for water sports or leisureBody-supporting devices specially adapted for water sports or leisure
B63B 35/00 - Vessels or similar floating structures specially adapted for specific purposes and not otherwise provided for
B63B 21/66 - Equipment specially adapted for towing underwater objects or vessels, e.g. fairings for tow-cables
B64U 101/30 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for imaging, photography or videography
B64U 101/60 - UAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting passengersUAVs specially adapted for particular uses or applications for transporting goods other than weapons
68.
Systems and methods of communication among electronic devices associated with watercraft
Methods and systems enabling electronic devices associated with each of at least two watercrafts to dynamically form ad hoc wireless networks when the corresponding watercrafts are within range of one another are provided. Data transfer on the water is thus enhanced via such ad hoc mesh-type networks. A method of distributing marine electronics data includes receiving, over a first wireless local area network at an electronic device associated with a first watercraft, marine electronics data from an electronic device associated with a second watercraft; establishing a second wireless local area network between the electronic device associated with the first watercraft and an electronic device associated with a third watercraft; and transmitting the marine electronics data received from the electronic device associated with the second watercraft from the electronic device associated with the first watercraft to the electronic device associated with the third watercraft over the second wireless local area network.
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
H04W 4/46 - Services specially adapted for particular environments, situations or purposes for vehicles, e.g. vehicle-to-pedestrians [V2P] for vehicle-to-vehicle communication [V2V]
Example steering control systems and methods for multiple devices are provided herein. A system includes a trolling motor assembly having a propulsion motor and a steering actuator and a sonar assembly comprising a transducer assembly and a directional actuator. The system further includes a user input assembly that is configured to detect user activity related to controlling operation of the trolling motor assembly and operation of the sonar assembly. The system further includes a processor that is configured to determine a direction of turn based on user activity, generate an electrical turning input signal indicating the direction of turn, and direct either one or both of the steering actuator and the directional actuator, via the turning input signal, to adjust a direction of either one or both of the propulsion motor and the transducer assembly accordingly.
G05D 1/00 - Control of position, course, altitude or attitude of land, water, air or space vehicles, e.g. using automatic pilots
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
09 - Scientific and electric apparatus and instruments
Goods & Services
Marine trolling propulsion systems; marine electric motor
drive system housing; trolling motor nose cone; trolling
motor actuator and deployment system and mechanism; trolling
motor control system and mechanism; accessories, components,
and brackets adapted for the aforementioned; trolling
propulsion mechanisms or motors, other than for land
vehicles. Marine sonars and transducers; chartplotters; fishfinders;
multifunction displays; displays; radars; global positioning
systems; navigation systems; autopilot systems; networking
systems; electricity switching systems; VHF, cellular,
satellite, and wireless communication systems; wind, speed,
chemistry, weight, and measurement devices and interfaces;
actuating and deployment devices and interfaces; remote and
user interfaces devices; haptic, audio, and visual control
systems, audio and visual signaling devices; downloadable
operating systems and app software; controls, accessories,
components, brackets adapted for the aforementioned;
automatic steering system and mechanism for the control of
marine vehicles.
71.
BEAMFORMING SONAR SYSTEMS FOR SIDE LIVE SONAR, AND ASSOCIATED METHODS
A system is provided for imaging an underwater environment. The system includes two or more 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 forward from a watercraft, from each side of the watercraft, and downward of the watercraft. Accordingly, multiple 2D live sonar images can be formed. One or more of the multiple sonar return beams can be selected and used to form sonar images that anglers are used to, without requiring separate transducer elements.
G01S 15/89 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
G10K 11/00 - Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in generalMethods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
G10K 11/34 - Sound-focusing or directing, e.g. scanning using electrical steering of transducer arrays, e.g. beam steering
A trolling motor is provided for attachment to a watercraft. The trolling motor includes a system for steering and trimming a trolling motor. The system includes a trolling motor shaft attachment feature configured to receive and rotate with a trolling motor shaft about a trolling motor shaft axis. The system further includes a steering system having a steering motor configured to rotate the shaft attachment feature and shaft to steer a facing direction of the trolling motor. The trim system includes a trim module having a trim motor configured to cause the trolling motor shaft to raise or lower with respect to the steering system so as to cause the trolling motor to raise or lower with respect to the watercraft. The trim module is disposed on the shaft attachment feature such that the trim module rotates with the trolling motor shaft attachment feature about the shaft axis.
A marine device assembly, such including a trolling motor and/or at least one sonar transducer, is provided for attachment to a watercraft. The trolling motor and/or sonar transducer is attached at an end of a shaft. The marine device assembly includes a position adjustment assembly comprising a plurality of rotatable drums surrounding the shaft that are configured to adjust the rotational and/or vertical position of the trolling motor and/or sonar transducer(s) in accordance with a position adjustment command. In various aspects, the drums are configured to independently rotate about the shaft in a clockwise or counterclockwise direction so as to cause the trolling motor and/or sonar transducer(s) to rotate about the central axis of the shaft and/or translate along the central axis of the shaft.
Systems and methods for presenting marine information are provided herein. A system includes an array of a plurality of sonar transducer elements associated with a watercraft and a display. The system causes presentation of a chart of a body of water, including a representation of the watercraft at a current location. The system also operates the array to cause transmission of sonar beams into the underwater environment and receives sonar return data from the array. The system further generates, based on the sonar return data, a two-dimensional live sonar image, determines a facing direction of the array, and causes presentation of the sonar image in the facing direction on the chart and relative to the representation of the watercraft. Accordingly, live sonar imagery is presented on the chart to visually provide a relationship between objects within the live sonar imagery and the real-world position of those objects.
G01S 3/801 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using ultrasonic, sonic, or infrasonic waves Details
G01S 3/802 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
H04N 1/00 - Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmissionDetails thereof
G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
G09B 29/00 - MapsPlansChartsDiagrams, e.g. route diagrams
G06F 3/04845 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] for the control of specific functions or operations, e.g. selecting or manipulating an object, an image or a displayed text element, setting a parameter value or selecting a range for image manipulation, e.g. dragging, rotation, expansion or change of colour
Example steering control systems for multiple devices are provided herein. A system includes a trolling motor assembly having a propulsion motor and a steering actuator and a sonar assembly comprising a transducer assembly and a directional actuator. The system further includes a user input assembly that is configured to detect user activity related to controlling operation of the trolling motor assembly and operation of the sonar assembly. The system further includes a processor that is configured to determine a direction of turn based on user activity, generate an electrical turning input signal indicating the direction of turn, and direct one of the steering actuator and the directional actuator, via the turning input signal, to rotate one of the propulsion motor and the transducer assembly, respectively, in a direction of turn based on the turning input signal.
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
A system for controlling sonar beam shapes is provided. The system comprises at least one sonar transducer element having an emitting face. The at least one sonar transducer element is configured to generate a sonar beam having a path. The system also comprises a horn that is configured to rest within the path of the sonar beam. The horn is configured to reform a beam shape of the sonar beam.
A system for generating live sonar images is provided having a first and second sonar transducer assembly. The sonar transducer assemblies each have sonar transducer elements configured to transmit sonar beam(s) into an underwater environment to form respective coverage volumes. The sonar transducer assemblies each define a respective facing direction. The system includes bracket(s) having alignment feature(s). The bracket(s) are configured to mount the sonar transducer assemblies to a watercraft, and the alignment feature(s) are configured to position the sonar transducer assemblies so that the facing directions are different and relative to each other so as to create continuous coverage of the underwater environment. Continuous coverage has an overall coverage volume that is greater than either of the coverage volumes individually. Sonar return data from the sonar transducer elements is used to form a live sonar image representative of sonar returns received from the overall coverage volume.
G01S 3/801 - Direction-finders for determining the direction from which infrasonic, sonic, ultrasonic, or electromagnetic waves, or particle emission, not having a directional significance, are being received using ultrasonic, sonic, or infrasonic waves Details
G01S 3/802 - Systems for determining direction or deviation from predetermined direction
G06F 3/041 - Digitisers, e.g. for touch screens or touch pads, characterised by the transducing means
G06F 3/04845 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] for the control of specific functions or operations, e.g. selecting or manipulating an object, an image or a displayed text element, setting a parameter value or selecting a range for image manipulation, e.g. dragging, rotation, expansion or change of colour
G06F 3/0488 - Interaction techniques based on graphical user interfaces [GUI] using specific features provided by the input device, e.g. functions controlled by the rotation of a mouse with dual sensing arrangements, or of the nature of the input device, e.g. tap gestures based on pressure sensed by a digitiser using a touch-screen or digitiser, e.g. input of commands through traced gestures
G09B 29/00 - MapsPlansChartsDiagrams, e.g. route diagrams
H04N 1/00 - Scanning, transmission or reproduction of documents or the like, e.g. facsimile transmissionDetails thereof
A sonar system is provided including a sonar assembly configured to attach to a motor assembly of a watercraft or a watercraft. The sonar assembly includes sonar transducer element(s) that transmit sonar beam(s). The sonar system includes a display, processor(s), and a steering assembly configured to cause rotation of the sonar assembly or the motor assembly. The sonar system includes a memory including computer program code that causes the processor(s) to cause the sonar transducer element(s) to emit sonar beam(s), receive sonar return data from a coverage volume of the sonar transducer element(s), generate a sonar image of the coverage volume based on the sonar return data, receive an input from a user, determine a target in the underwater environment based on the input, and cause the steering assembly to adjust the coverage volume to maintain the target within the coverage volume as the watercraft moves relative to the target.
Sonar steering systems offering improved functionality and ease of use for an operator (e.g., an angler) are provided. A sonar steering system is configured to automatically adjust the directional coverage volume of the sonar system in a hands-free manner to allow the operator to focus on other tasks. Some such sonar steering systems are configured to adjust the directional coverage volume of the sonar transducers to maintain a target such as an area of interest (AOI) within the sonar display despite movement of the watercraft relative to the target. Accordingly, the coverage volume may be automatically adjusted to maintain the aim of the sonar transducers at a target that is moving through the water, such as a school of fish.
A sonar system is provided including a sonar assembly configured to attach to a motor assembly of a watercraft or a watercraft. The sonar assembly includes sonar transducer element(s) that transmit sonar beam(s). The sonar system includes a display, processor(s), and a steering assembly configured to cause rotation of the sonar assembly or the motor assembly. The sonar system includes a memory including computer program code that causes the processor(s) to cause the sonar transducer element(s) to emit sonar beam(s), receive sonar return data from a coverage volume of the sonar transducer element(s), generate a sonar image of the coverage volume based on the sonar return data, receive an input from a user, determine a target in the underwater environment based on the input, and cause the steering assembly to adjust the coverage volume to maintain the target within the coverage volume as the watercraft moves relative to the target.
A sonar system for a watercraft, including a shaft defining a top and a bottom end. The system includes a first attachment operatively connected to the top end of the shaft, and a second attachment operatively connected to the bottom end of the shaft including a transducer assembly. The first attachment defines a first member pivotably connected to the top end of the shaft, and a handle member rotatably attached about the first member. The second attachment defines a second member pivotably connected to the bottom end of the shaft, and a bracket member rotatably attached about the second member. The system comprises a first connector extending between the first and second members and configured to cause reciprocal movement between the first and second members. The system comprises a second connector extending between the first and second members and configured to cause reciprocal rotation between the first and second members.
A sonar assembly for a watercraft, including an elongated shaft having a top end and a bottom end, and defining a bore that extends from the top end to the bottom end of the elongated shaft, a transducer assembly secured to the bottom end of the elongated shaft, an elongated member having a top end and a bottom end, the elongated member being disposed within the bore of the elongated shaft, the bottom end of the elongated member being operatively connected to the transducer assembly such that movement of the elongated member with respect to the elongated shaft rotates the transducer assembly within a vertical plane with respect to the watercraft.
Systems and methods for determining a location of an object within a sonar beam zone are detailed herein. A system for presenting marine data includes at least one sonar transducer associated with a watercraft, a display, processor(s), and a memory including a computer program code. The sonar transducer emits sonar beams into an underwater environment defining a beam shape. The program code, when executed, causes, on the display, presentation of a chart and a representation of the watercraft; and determines, based on the beam shape corresponding to the sonar transducer, a sonar beam zone corresponding to a sonar coverage of the underwater environment of the body of water. The program code further receives sonar return data and determines a position of an object within the sonar beam zone, and causes, on the display, presentation of the sonar beam zone and an indication of the object within the sonar beam zone.
Systems and methods for providing a sonar beam footprint are detailed herein. A system for presenting marine data includes at least one sonar transducer associated with a watercraft, a display, processor(s), and memory including computer program code. The sonar transducer emits sonar beams into an underwater environment that define a beam shape. The program code, when executed, causes, on the display, presentation of a chart and a representation of the watercraft; determines a depth corresponding to a bottom surface of a body of water at a current location of the watercraft; and determines, based on the depth and the beam shape, a sonar beam footprint corresponding to a projection of the beam shape at the depth. The program code further causes, on the display, presentation of the sonar beam footprint on the chart so as to visually indicate sonar beam coverage.
G01S 15/96 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for locating fish
G10K 11/00 - Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in generalMethods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
A sonar assembly is provided including at least one transducer configured to transmit one or more sonar beams into an underwater environment, a gyroscope configured to measure angular velocity associated with the at least one transducer, a processor, and a memory. The memory including computer program code configured to, when executed on the processor, cause the processor to determine orientation data associated with the at least one transducer based on the angular velocity measured by the gyroscope, determine if the orientation data corresponds to the at least one transducer being in a desired orientation, and cause an alert in response to the at least one transducer not being in the desired orientation.
Systems, assemblies, and methods for operating a marine motor are provided herein. An example motor system includes a motor, a battery, and a processor. The processor is configured to receive a user input indicating a desired speed, determine a charge level of the battery, determine an optimized speed or propulsion of the marine motor based on the desired speed and the determined charge level of the battery, and transmit a signal to the motor to operate accordingly. The processor may generate a correction factor based on at least one of the determined charge level of the battery, a boat speed profile curve, and a boat travel distance curve; and determine the optimized speed or propulsion by applying the correction factor to the desired speed. Thus, an eco-mode can be provided to help maintain a high level of battery charge while still enabling desired use.
A system is provided for imaging an underwater environment. The system includes one or more 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 cover the gap in sonar coverage for other arrays to create a continuous arc of sonar coverage. Accordingly, a 2D live sonar image can be formed. Three arrays are mounted in a housing in an X plus Line configuration with one of the arrays extending below the center of the X.
In non-limiting examples of the present disclosure, systems and methods for dynamically updating contour maps are provided. A first water level for a body of water may be determined by a computing device. A location within the body of water may be identified. A second water level relating to the identified location within the body of water may be determined, and the second water level and the first water level may be compared. Upon comparing the first and second water levels, a contour map for the body of water may be automatically updated.
A system for analysis of sonar data is provided comprising sonar transducer assembl(ies), processor(s), and a memory. The memory includes computer program code that is configured to, when executed, cause processor(s) to receive sonar data, where an object is represented within sonar data, and additional data from a data source other than the sonar transducer assembl(ies). The processor(s) further determine object characteristic(s) of the object using sonar data and additional data, and determine an estimated object-type for the object represented within sonar data using the object characteristic(s). The processor(s) further generate a sonar image based on sonar data, cause display of the sonar image, and cause provision of an indication of the estimated object-type so that the indication of the estimated object-type is correlated to the object representation in the sonar image.
G01S 7/539 - Details of systems according to groups , , of systems according to group using analysis of echo signal for target characterisationTarget signatureTarget cross-section
A system for the display of radar returns is provided. The system comprises a radar configured to provide radar data, a processor, and a display configured to present the radar data. The system comprises memory including computer program code configured to, when executed, cause the processor to receive the radar data, wherein an object is represented within the radar data; receive additional data from a data source other than the radar; and determine object characteristic(s) of the object using the radar data and additional data, wherein the object characteristic(s) comprises a position, a velocity, an intensity, or an object classification of one or more objects. The computer program code is also configured to cause the processor to cause presentation of the radar data including a representation of the object and an indication of the corresponding object characteristic(s). A marine electronic device and a non-transitory computer readable medium are also provided.
G01S 7/22 - Producing cursor lines and indicia by electronic means
G09G 5/37 - Details of the operation on graphic patterns
G09G 5/02 - Control arrangements or circuits for visual indicators common to cathode-ray tube indicators and other visual indicators characterised by the way in which colour is displayed
G01S 7/10 - Providing two-dimensional co-ordinated display of distance and direction
Artificial intelligence can be used to provide accurate realignment functionality for various different marine devices on a watercraft. A system is provided for aligning one or more marine devices, where one or more controllers are configured to receive marine data from the marine device and receive secondary data from one or more second devices. An expected alignment characteristic is determined based on the secondary data and a corresponding deviation therefrom is determined based on marine data. In response to determining the deviation, the controllers are configured to cause at least one of a notification indicating a misalignment of the marine device to be provided to a user, a data adjustment to marine data so as to produce recalibrated marine data, or a physical adjustment to be applied to the marine device so as to subsequently receive realigned marine data from the marine device.
B63B 79/40 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation for controlling the operation of vessels, e.g. monitoring their speed, routing or maintenance schedules
B63B 49/00 - Arrangements of nautical instruments or navigational aids
B63B 79/10 - Monitoring properties or operating parameters of vessels in operation using sensors, e.g. pressure sensors, strain gauges or accelerometers
G01S 13/50 - Systems of measurement based on relative movement of target
G01S 15/50 - Systems of measurement based on relative movement of target
A user input assembly for controlling operation of a trolling motor assembly including a propulsion motor, the user input assembly having an input device housing defining a top surface that is configured to receive a user's foot thereon, wherein the top surface defines a left edge and right edge, a support plate, wherein the input device housing is pivotably mounted to the support plate, and a switch that is selectively secured to the input device housing in one of a first position and a second position, wherein the first position is proximate the left edge of the input device housing, the second position is proximate the right edge of the input device housing, and the switch is movable between an open position and closed position so that the power is supplied to the propulsion motor.
A system is provided for imaging an underwater environment. The system includes one or more 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 cover the gap in sonar coverage for other arrays to create a continuous arc of sonar coverage. Accordingly, a 2D live sonar image can be formed. One or more of the multiple sonar return beams facing downwardly can be selected and used to form downward sonar images that anglers are used to, without requiring separate transducer elements. Fish arches formed using multiple sonar return beams can be positioned appropriately within a high resolution downward sonar image to form a desirable combined sonar image.
A 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.
G01S 15/89 - Sonar systems specially adapted for specific applications for mapping or imaging
G10K 11/00 - Methods or devices for transmitting, conducting or directing sound in generalMethods or devices for protecting against, or for damping, noise or other acoustic waves in general
97.
Systems and methods for rotational control of a trolling motor
Trolling motor assemblies and related methods of operation. A method includes providing an assembly comprising a main housing; a shaft rotatably coupled with the main housing, the shaft having a longitudinal axis; a gear coupled with the shaft; a plate rotatably coupled with one of the shaft and the main housing; and a projecting rib coupled with the other of the shaft and the main housing. The plate is rotated through a first angular displacement about the longitudinal axis. The gear is rotated through a second angular displacement about the longitudinal axis that is greater than the first angular displacement.
Sonar systems and related methods are provided. A sonar system for a water craft includes at least one transducer element having at least one emitting face. The at least one transducer element is mountable to the water craft. A sonar signal processor is in electronic communication with the at least one transducer element and is operative to associate signals with the at least one transducer element to cause at least one acoustic beam to be emitted from the at least one emitting face in a first beam direction. A beam reflector is mounted with respect to the at least one transducer element such that at least one beam reflecting surface of the beam reflector is positioned along the first beam direction. The at least one acoustic beam impinges upon the at least one beam reflecting surface and is reflected in a second beam direction different than the first beam direction.
Systems, assemblies, and methods for conveniently operating marine devices associated with a watercraft are provided herein. An example system includes a controller, a sensor module, and a marine device. The controller is configured to receive a user input indicating a desired action via the sensor module and transmit a signal to the marine device to cause the marine device to operate in a particular manner. The sensor module may include one or more motion sensors, and the controller may be configured to filter unintentional movement from the raw motion data sensed by the sensor module, such as due to movement of the watercraft floating on the surface of the water. Thus, the system may enable convenient and intuitive control over various marine devices associated with the watercraft.
A sensor assembly for a castable lure is provided including a pressure sensor configured to measure a water pressure applied to the castable lure when deployed in an underwater environment, a processor, and a memory including computer program code. The computer program code configured to, when executed on the processor, cause the processor to receive pressure data from the pressure sensor, correlate the pressure data with time stamp data, cause the pressure data and correlated time stamp data to be stored in the memory, determine a data connection status between a transceiver and a marine electronic device, and in response to determining that a data connection exists, cause the pressure data and the correlated time stamp data to be transmitted to the marine electronic device. The pressure data and correlated pressure data correspond to a depth profile for a cast of the castable lure.
