Flextensional Wideband Acoustic Communications Using PMN-PT Navy SBIR FY2010.1 Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2010.1 Topic No.: N101-046 Topic Title: Flextensional Wideband Acoustic Communications Using PMN-PT Proposal No.: N101-046-1804 Firm: TRS Ceramics, Inc. 2820 East College Avenue State College, Pennsylvania 16801 Contact: Kevin Snook Phone: (814) 238-7485 Web Site: www.trstechnologies.com Abstract: The goal of the Navy is to consolidate performance of the TR-232 and TR-233 transducers, as well as provide additional functionality in a compact transmit/receive device for communications. TRS Technologies proposes to utilize the advantages of single crystal piezoelectrics to provide the high bandwidth and source level necessary to cover multiple frequency bands. TRS will team with Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems to develop a small, low frequency transducer package capable of transmit/receive. One design utilizes a flextensional mode that provides acoustic directionality. Maximizing reliability will be a key focus, as well as reducing costs through processing and measuring TVR. A cost analysis will be performed, and the transducer performance will be compared with current single crystal state-of-the-art, to optimize performance in Phase II. Benefits: Direct military benefits of this technology include reducing the size of low frequency transducers to enable added functionality on small underwater platforms such as UUVs. The low frequencies possible are ideal for sub-bottom imaging and bathymetry, and the elements can be oriented to maximize performance in different situations. The frequency range could also be used in the oil industry for exploration, or if modified, during drilling for maximum efficiency. The flextensional technology is also applicable to the textile industry, where reliable actuators are necessary for clothing manufacture. The high properties also extend to lower temperature ranges, making it an ideal solution for actuators in space exploration. Return