Reconfigurable Acoustic Delay Array for Precise Wavefront Shaping
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current methods for manipulating acoustic waves, such as phased arrays, are bulky, expensive, and not easily scalable, limiting their application in various fields that require precise control.
Innovation Solution
A device comprising a re-configurable array of unit cells that introduce time delays to acoustic waves, allowing for flexible manipulation of acoustic outputs by varying the spatial delay distribution through re-arrangement or electronic control of unit cells with different path lengths and sound speeds.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If phased arrays are used to manipulate acoustic waves, then precise control of acoustic waves is achieved, but the device becomes bulky and expensive
Solution Approach 1:
The device is divided into multiple unit cells arranged in an array, where each unit cell independently introduces a specific time delay to the incident acoustic wave. This segmentation allows precise control of acoustic waves while keeping each unit cell simple in structure, avoiding the need for complex phased array electronics.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces the electronic control system of traditional phased arrays with a passive acoustic delay structure. Instead of using electronic phase shifters and complex signal processing, the invention uses physical path length differences within each unit cell to introduce time delays, thereby substituting a mechanical/acoustic system for an electronic one.
2Measurement precision
If phased arrays are used to manipulate acoustic waves, then precise control of acoustic waves is achieved, but the cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The unit cells are designed as simple, inexpensive structures that can be manufactured using conventional techniques. Each unit cell acts as a passive acoustic element with a fixed time delay determined by its physical structure, eliminating the need for expensive electronic components and reducing overall manufacturing costs while maintaining control precision.
Solution Approach 2:
Each unit cell is designed to automatically introduce the required time delay through its physical structure without requiring external electronic control or power supply. The path length within each unit cell self-determines the delay, making the system inherently simple and cost-effective to manufacture.
3Device complexity
If fixed lenses are used to manipulate acoustic waves, then the device is simple, but the device can only perform a single function
Solution Approach 1:
The array of unit cells can be dynamically reconfigured by changing which unit cells are active and their respective time delays. This allows the same physical device to perform multiple acoustic manipulation functions such as focusing, beam steering, and wavefront shaping, providing adaptability while keeping each individual unit cell simple.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent creates a universal acoustic manipulation device where the same array of unit cells can be programmed to perform different acoustic functions by adjusting the time delay pattern. This multi-functional capability is achieved without requiring multiple specialized devices, as the reconfigurable time delay array can adapt to various acoustic control tasks.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Provides a cost-effective and scalable method for precise acoustic wave manipulation, enabling flexible and efficient generation of arbitrary acoustic outputs with reduced complexity and cost compared to traditional phased arrays.
Implementation Method 1
the physical structure of the unit cells may be designed so as to cause the acoustic waves to travel an extended effective path length, Leff, so that it takes longer for the acoustic waves to transit the unit cell
Data Source
AI summary
A device for manipulating an incident acoustic wave to generate an acoustic output is described wherein the device comprises a plurality of unit cells arranged into an array, at least some of said unit cells being configured to introduce time delays to an incident acoustic wave at the respective positions of the unit cells within the array of unit cells, such that said plurality of unit cells define an array of time delays to thereby define a spatial delay distribution for manipulating an incident acoustic wave to generate an acoustic output. The array of time delays may be re-configured to vary the spatial delay distribution of the device in order to generate different acoustic outputs. Also described are methods for designing or configuring such devices.