Sparton Corporation

Claude Sims

Robert James Martin

An acoustic transducer, especially adapted for hydrophones, is disclosed. The transducer comprises a piezoelectric ceramic disk with a main or signal electrode, a common electrode and a feedback electrode; negative feedback is provided around an associated amplifier and the transducer. The transducer is useful in either a sonic receiver or a sonic transmitter. Various ceramic disk configurations are disclosed and several electrode configurations are disclosed. The negative feedback minimizes the undesired effects of the high Q characteristic of the piezoelectric ceramic transducer. The transducer exhibits improved frequency response characteristics including increased bandwidth and reduced resonance effects, fixed or linear phase shift over a broad range and improved transient response. Also, the effect of normal manufacturing variations upon sensitivity, frequency and phase response is minimized.

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Orlando, FL, United States of America

Claude Sims