Low-Profile, Broadband, Shear-Mode SONAR Transducer for Deep Submergence Applications
Navy SBIR FY2014.1


Sol No.: Navy SBIR FY2014.1
Topic No.: N141-066
Topic Title: Low-Profile, Broadband, Shear-Mode SONAR Transducer for Deep Submergence Applications
Proposal No.: N141-066-0970
Firm: Hadal, Inc.
1907 Dennison St
Oakland, California 94606
Contact: Richard Rikoski
Phone: (510) 495-0850
Abstract: Hadal Inc. is partnering with the Pennsylvania State University through its Applied Research Laboratory (PSU:ARL) to develop a d36-based shear mode transducer. Their combined experience provides an opportunity to effectively develop and inexpensively test a single crystal projector for incorporation into Navy and commercially fielded systems. The discovery of a large longitudinal (d36) shear coefficient in piezo-crystals has lead to a novel transducer design previously unattainable with conventional piezo-ceramic. Contrary to the more common shear modes, such as d15, this crystal cut allows the working electrodes to be the same as the poling electrodes so that large driving electric fields can be applied without depoling. This is a necessary characteristics for compact, high power, broad bandwidth acoustic projectors. This joint Phase I design and analysis effort will provide the foundation for a Phase II effort focused on constructing and testing a prototype deep rated broadband shear mode transducer.
Benefits: A successful effort will lead to a transducer with increased bandwidth for acoustic mapping, navigation, and communication systems.

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