Acoustic Projector Using SASER Eigenvalue Power Maximization
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Solution Overview
Problem
Designing a cost-effective, low-frequency, high-power, high-efficiency, omnidirectional acoustic projector is challenging due to conflicting requirements, where high power necessitates a large radiation area while omni-directionality demands a projector smaller than a third of a wavelength.
Innovation Solution
The proposed solution involves a Sound Amplification by Synchronized Excitation of Radiators (SASER) technique, where a large number of efficient acoustic transducers are aligned inside a hard-walled tube with an acoustically transparent aperture smaller than one-third of the wavelength, and an Eigenvalue-based power maximization method is used to determine optimal driving signals for the transducers to maximize radiated power.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Power
If a large radiation area is used to achieve high power, then power is improved, but the projector size increases which compromises omni-directionality
Solution Approach 1:
The acoustic projector is segmented into multiple individual acoustic radiators (transducers) arranged in an array. Each radiator contributes to the overall acoustic power output, allowing the system to achieve high power without requiring a single large radiation area. The segmented structure enables the projector to maintain a compact size while summing the power output of multiple smaller elements.
Solution Approach 2:
Multiple acoustic radiators are merged into a single integrated projector system with synchronized operation. The acoustic outputs of individual radiators are combined through coherent addition, achieving high overall power output from a compact array. This merging allows the system to function as a unified high-power source while maintaining small individual component sizes.
2Adaptability or versatility
If the projector size is reduced to achieve omni-directionality, then omni-directionality is improved, but the radiation area decreases which limits power output
Solution Approach 1:
The projector transitions from relying on a single large-dimensional radiation area to using multiple small radiators arranged in a spatial array. This dimensional reorganization allows the system to achieve omni-directional radiation patterns through the geometric arrangement of multiple point sources, rather than requiring a large continuous surface. The power output is achieved through the collective contribution of radiators distributed in three-dimensional space.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the operational parameters by synchronizing the phase and amplitude of multiple small radiators rather than operating a single large radiator. By controlling the timing and intensity parameters of individual radiators, the system achieves both omni-directional radiation and high power output from a compact configuration, transforming the parameter space from size-dependent to coordination-dependent.
3Speed
If high power signal is applied to increase transmission range, then transmission range is improved, but localized power intensity increases causing cavitation at the diaphragm face
Solution Approach 1:
The total power requirement is segmented across multiple radiators, distributing the power intensity load. Instead of concentrating high power through a single diaphragm face, the system divides the power delivery function among many smaller radiating elements, reducing localized intensity and preventing cavitation while maintaining overall high power output for extended transmission range.
Solution Approach 2:
The system uses an array configuration and signal distribution network as an intermediary between the power source and the acoustic medium. This intermediary structure allows power to be delivered through multiple distributed paths rather than a single concentrated path, mediating the power intensity to prevent cavitation while achieving the desired transmission range through cumulative acoustic output.
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
This approach enables high power transmission with omni-directionality without increasing the projector size, achieving efficient and cost-effective acoustic energy distribution across a 360-degree sector.
Implementation Method 1
an array of acoustic transducers within the enclosure
Implementation Method 2
Sound Amplification by Synchronized Excitation of Radiators (SASER) technique
Data Source
AI summary
A method and system for maximizing radiated power from a linear array of acoustic projectors. In one case, the method realizes omni-directional acoustic beam patterns from a linear array of acoustic projectors contained within an acoustically-impervious enclosure with an acoustically transparent aperture. In another case, the method realizes an efficient set of beams for a conventional horizontal projector array or a similar acoustic projector array, which may be within an acoustically transparent enclosure. Drive signals are determined by finding a mutual impedance matrix that characterizes the interdependence of the acoustic projectors and solving an eigenvalue problem for the mutual impedance matrix. One of the eigenvalues is selected on the basis that it maximizes radiated power, and the corresponding eigenvectors are used to derive the corresponding drive signals.