The book presents a broad-scope analysis of piezoelectric
electromechanical transducers and the related aspects of practical transducer
design for underwater applications. It uses an energy method for analyzing
transducer problems that provides the physical insight important for the
understanding of electromechanical devices. Application of the method is first
illustrated with transducer examples that can be modeled as systems with a
single degree of freedom, (such as spheres, short cylinders, bars and flexural
disks and plates made of piezoelectric ceramics). Thereupon, transducers are
modeled as devices with multiple degrees of freedom. In all these cases,
results of modeling are presented in the form of equivalent electromechanical
circuits convenient for the calculation of the transducers’ operational
characteristics. Special focus is made on the effects of coupled vibrations in
mechanical systems on transducer performance. The book also provides extensive
coverage of acoustic radiation including acoustic interaction between the
transducers.
The book is inherently multidisciplinary. It provides
essential background regarding the vibration of elastic passive and
piezoelectric bodies, piezoelectricity, acoustic radiation, and transducer
characterization. Scientists and engineers working in the field of
electroacoustics and those involved in education in the field will find this
material useful not only for underwater acoustics, but also for
electromechanics, energy conversion and medical ultrasonics.
