Author: Sri Chaitanya Etta, Grade 9
Abstract – This article presents a report on the Procedure, Function, Science, Components required and Precaution to be taken for making a sound navigation and ranging (Sonar) device. This is a 180 degree rotating unit that can constantly monitor and give data on the signals that are received.
Keywords – Ranging, Radar, servo motors, Ultrasonic sensor, sound waves, echo
Introduction
A SONAR is an acronym for (Sound Navigation And Ranging). This device uses sound mechanisms to navigate or detect objects and species around them, to see underwater, to read the depth of a waterbody and to find the distance it is from an object or species in the water.
Components
Servo motors:- Servo Motors are electronic devices that use closed-loop mechanisms and push or rotate parts of a machine. Servo motors have a limited range of only 180 °. They are moved or give an output from the coded signals.
Ultrasonic sensors: Ultrasonic sensors are electronic devices that use sound waves for sensing. Ultrasonic sensors work by emitting sound waves at a frequency of 40,000 Hz. The device has two heads for sending and receiving sound waves.
Scientific theory
Sonar, an acronym for Sound Navigation and Ranging, is a technology that uses sound waves to detect and locate objects underwater.
Sound waves
Sonar depends on the transmission of sound waves through a medium and these sound waves are mechanical waves that consist of compressions and rarefactions.
Echo formation
When the sound waves encounter an object, they reflect towards the sonar system, creating echoes. The time the echo returns is proportional to the distance between the sonar system and the object.
Calculating distance
The distance of an object can be calculated by taking in consideration the speed of sound in the air and the time taken to travel to the object and reflect ,by using the formula
Distance = speed x time
where speed of sound = 340m/s in air.
Procedure
The ultrasonic sensor which needs to move 180° is attached to the servo motor. The servo motor and ultrasonic sensor are connected to the Arduino.
Care and precautions
- Regular inspection and maintenance of all radar system components, including transmitter and receiver.
- The parts of a sonar such as ultrasonic sensor, servo motors, Arduino, and jumper wires should not be touched or moved.
Output
The sonar device is able to detect obstacles in a 180 degrees and calculate their distance from the device.
Conclusion
A SONAR is used to detect and track objects around at a distance . It also plays a crucial role in navigation as these sonar models are mainly used in ships and submarines to detect obstacles, living organisms and other ships or submarines around.or