Ultrasonic transducer based device positioning system and method

An automatic depth control system for controlling a measured position of a device above the ground as the device is moved across a surface, the automatic depth control system comprising:

• a joystick input device for specifying a plurality of position settings;
• a device position sensor;
• a device position display unit;
• and
• a hydraulic position control system for maintaining the measured device position within a specified position window around a set position;
• wherein
• the device position sensor comprises:
• an ultrasonic transducer for generating a position signal proportional to the position of the device above the ground, the ultrasonic transducer transmits the position signal to the hydraulic position control system;
• a swivel housing coupled to the device;
• a swivel bracket extending from the swivel housing in order to support the ultrasonic transducer;
• and
• a transducer bracket coupled to the swivel bracket using flexible stand-off mounts in order to provide clearance for the transducer when plugged by material;
• the device position sensor is arranged and configured to permit the swivel bracket and transducer bracket assembly to rotate within the swivel housing in order to permit the ultrasonic transducer to remain directed towards the ground;
• the ultrasonic transducer comprises:
• an ultrasonic transducer element;
• a transducer housing having an open and a closed end and defining a length-wise channel within the transducer housing from the open end towards the closed end, the transducer housing surrounds the ultrasonic transducer element;
• a housing cap coupled to the open end of the transducer housing to hold the open end of the transducer housing coupled to the transducer bracket, the housing cap defines a hole through the housing cap which mates with the length-wise channel of the transducer housing;
• a transducer insert located within the length-wise channel, the transducer insert is placed between the open end of the transducer housing and the transducer element and comprises a campfer to prevent the receipt of echo signals generated by sharp edged signals;
• a venting port having a protective grill element, the protective grill being coupled to the housing cap to cover the open end of the transducer housing between the transducer housing and the housing cap.