Assessment of different pillar geometries for 1-3 composite transducers using finite element analysis

Abstract

Composite piezoelectric transducers, comprising piezoceramic pillars aligned within a polymer matrix, exhibit a high electromechanical coupling coefficient and a low acoustic impedance. Finite element analysis is used to investigate the dependence of device performance, in terms of electromechanical efficiency and vibrational uniformity, on pillar geometry. Results obtained by using alternative pillar shapes, including circular, square, and triangular geometries, are discussed, and an overall design strategy is formulated.<>