The development of a doubly curved acoustic array using injection molded 1-3 piezocomposite

The design, fabrication, and acoustic calibration of a doubly curved acoustic array for UUV oceanographic applications is presented. The sensor employs a unique piezoceramic thermoplastic composite which is conformable and capable of deep ocean operation. The composite consists of several small diameter (1.0 mm) PZT-5H rods regularly distributed in a two-dimensional lattice and aligned perpendicular to their diameter. The PZT-5H rods are encapsulated within a thermoplastic viscoelastic moldable epoxy matrix to form an active acoustic composite panel. The thermoplastic epoxy phase of the composite allows the panel to be shaped to a specific vehicle geometry. Low-profile (