Koch R.

In order to understand the complex structureborne and fluidborne noise propagation physics within a distributed undersea acoustic transducer, three-dimensional nonlinear dynamic Finite Element Analysis (FEA) is utilized in the present paper. Specifically, the coupled structural, acoustic and piezoelectric noise propagation physics within a layered 1-3 composite, half-wavelength resonator transducer array for high-frequency, broadband underwater applications is modeled herein using dynamic FEA. This analysis is being performed primarily to evaluate the complex steady-state dynamic response of the multiple-layered composite array in order to ensure bond structural integrity during high-frequency operation. As part of the design process, various geometric configurations of the individual array layers are examined to determine their effect on both array performance and structural integrity (e.g., relative PZT element spacing between layers, bond materials, joining layer thickness). The results of the present analysis are compared to experimental data that was collected on prototype layered 1-3 composite arrays.