Low-Profile, Broadband, Shear-Mode SONAR Transducer for Deep Submergence Applications

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.