Scientific Article

Finite element optimization and performance analysis of a multi-driven Tonpilz transducer

¹ College of Ship and Ocean Engineering, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212000, PR China
² College of Ocean, Jiangsu University of Science and Technology, Zhenjiang, 212000, PR China

^* Corresponding author: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. ; This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Received: 12 April 2025
Accepted: 27 October 2025

Abstract

To improve broadband transmission performance of mid-frequency transducers, the finite element method was applied to optimize and analyze the performance of a multi-driven Tonpilz transducer, focusing on excitation methods and structural design. A multi-driven Tonpilz transducer with a radiating head containing concentric-ring cavities was proposed, in which multi-cavity design reduces effective mass and enhances bandwidth. The performance under three excitation methods was evaluated by comparing admittance curves in air and analyzing resonant modes, revealing the effects of excitation methods on electromechanical coupling and resonant peaks. Partial excitation was identified as the optimal approach. The impedance characteristics, vibrational modes, and acoustic directivity in water were further investigated. The effects of the mass block, radiating head containing concentric-ring cavities, and front cover on transmitting voltage response fluctuations were analyzed. After optimization, the transducer operates over 17 kHz–41 kHz, with a −3 dB bandwidth of 24 kHz and a maximum transmitting voltage response of 143.7 dB re 1 μPa/V @ 1 m, providing a foundation for applications in related fields.