Abstract:
A new approach for generating impulsive sound in water has been devised. The technology allows for repeatable impulsive sound generation that is depth independent, unlike the technologies of airguns, spark discharge devices, and explosives which create an oscillating gas bubble. One application for this device would be target detection for littoral/clutter-filled environments where repeatable impulsive low-frequency broadband acoustic energy is required. In-water test results of a demonstration device that utilized the snap-through behavior of a spherical shell will be presented. [Work supported by ONR, Code 321SS.]