Introduction to the Theory and Design of Sonar Transducers

Originally written as a text for U. S. Naval Postgraduate School students, this book introduces the fundamentals of transducer theory using basic equivalent electric circuit analogies for explaining the operation of underwater transducers and quantifying their design. The author explains the electrical, magnetic and mechanical properties of piezoelectric materials and then leads us in to their use as simple vibrators. The reader is walked through the design of a 5-kHz underwater projector. Starting with the system objectives, electrical and mechanical specifications are developed in tradeoffs. A practical design is completed that meets the objectives and procedures for design adjustments are outlined. Basic aspects for the design of a low frequency projector design are also presented. Additional chapters address magnetorestrictive transducers, hydrophone design, arrays and beam patterns, and general problems of transducer designs.

Introduction to Theory and Design of Sonar Transducers is an outstanding text for teaching undergraduate students who have some background in acoustics and electrical engineering and who are beginning to work in the area of transducers for underwater sound. Each chapter has questions and problems with selected answers in the back of the book.