Depth finder with tutorial
AssigneeMicrosonics, Inc.
InventorsDavid R. Leavell, Earl W. Spencer, Jr., Bruce L. Bacon
Life of this patent
Estimating the term…
Abstract
A liquid crystal display depth finder using a sonar transducer is provided with a plurality of input keys interfaced to a microprocessor with each input key being dedicated to a particular function or feature usable with the depth finder. The microprocessor is utilized to control the operation of the transducer and the display of the data generated thereby in accordance with the particular function or set of functions chosen by the operator and to manipulate programming stored within the depth finder which will enable a tutorial mode comprising alphanumeric information and command key indication such that an the user may determine how the machine is to properly function.
Claims10
A depth finder for use on a boat to locate underwater structure and fish using reflected sonic energy comprising:
- (a) transmitter means for generating repetitive signals;
- (b) transducer means for converting said signals into sonic energy and directing said energy into a body of water such that reflected sonic energy incident on said transducer means is converted into a reflected energy signal;
- (c) receiver means for receiving said reflected energy signal;
- (d) programmable computer means operatively connected to said transmitter means and said receiver means to receive electronic information therefrom and to provide control signals thereto in accordance with a plurality of operating modes programmed within said programmable computer means;
- (e) display means operatively connected to said programmable computer means for displaying visual graphic representations corresponding to said reflected energy signal;
- (f) manually operable input means for providing command signals to said programmable computer means;
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- (g) means associated with said programmable computer means for providing a tutorial display on said display means to explain the proper operation of said depth finder, said means being interactive with said input means and said programmable computer means to display instructional information stored therein responsive to manual operation of said input means.
A depth finder for locating underwater structure and fish from a floating platform by directing sonic energy downwater into a subjacent body of water comprising:
- (a) electronic means for generating and receiving a series of identifiable repetitive sonic signals;
- (b) programmable computer means operatively connected to said electronic means to receive data therefrom relative to said sonic signals, said programmable computer means programmed to utilize said data to generate electronic signals representative of underwater structure and fish in a live operating mode;
- (c) programmable memory means for use in an interactive tutorial mode of operation wherein an operator is provided with instruction on the operation of said depth finder;
- (d) display means operatively connected to said programmable computer means to receive electronic signals and provide a visual display in accordance therewith;
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- (e) input means operatively connected to said programmable controller to allow an operator provide control messages thereto to select the mode of operation of said depth finder and to interactively control said operation.
Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.