Finite element design of a flex-tensional transducer excited by a folded actuator

Study of low frequency, small size transducers was an important aspect for development of underwater acoustic transducers. Flex-tensional transducers of Class ? are typical low frequency, high-power and small size transducers. For reducing the resonance frequency, a new kind of flex-tensional transducers with excitation from folded actuators was put forward. The transducer was designed with finite element method using software ANSYS. Comparison between folded actuator excitation mode and traditional excitation mode was made. Such kind driving structures can effectively reduce the resonance frequency of the transducer. Combined with the shell made of low-stiffness material, the resonance frequency of the transducer in water can be reduced from 2.5 kHz to 1.2 kHz such that the purpose of reducing the resonance frequency of the transducer has been truly realized. Meanwhile, multiple flexural vibrations excited by this kind of folded actuator have also extended the bandwidth of the transducer.