Design of monolithic 1-3 piezocomposite ultrasonic arrays using finite element modelling

Deals with the development and evaluation of finite element models for monolithic array elements manufactured from 1-3 piezocomposite materials. The approach is verified by comparing results of example analyses with experimental measurements. The models are then used to predict the influence of varying different parameters of the transducer construction on the behaviour of an individual array element. This includes changing the aspect ratio of the ceramic pillars and the number of ceramic pillars under the active electrode pattern. The models were also extended to incorporate the influence of matching layers, backing blocks and different load media on the performance of the device. From this extensive set of simulations, a set of design guidelines is derived and presented for the design of monolithic 1-3 piezocomposite ultrasonic arrays.