Acoustic Vector Projector Technology

Etrema proposes to develop a modified acoustic projector design that provides broad bandwidth, high source level, directional output, high duty cycle, and high reliability in a compact package. The design will target the same acoustic source levels as the baseline Vector Projector with higher duty cycle, lower frequency bandwidth, and a smaller package size. Specific objectives of the effort are: identify specific improvements to the existing Vector Projector to improve source level and duty cycle; develop a notional projector design by performing a trade-off analysis of different projector designs; and, in the Option, develop a proof-of-concept design that demonstrates the performance goals. Technical feasibility of the projector will be demonstrated by using a combination of equivalent circuit-based models and finite element models to develop a design that meets the performance goals. Long-term performance and reliability will be assessed by identifying areas of greatest risk in the design and developing mitigation plans to address them. Etrema plans to partner with Ultra Electronics Ocean Systems in the development of the Vector Projector. Advantages of the proposed work will be an improved design that meets requirements for ASW and CTDCL missions.