Finite element simulation of single ultrasonic transducer with segmented electrodes to adjust the directional characteristic

For many applications like level measurement and industry robotics it is of advantage if the directional characteristic of an ultrasonic transducer is changeable or adaptable for the improvement of spatial resolution. Often this goal is reached with the use of ultrasonic transducer arrays, which elements are driven with phase shifted excitation signals. One disadvantage of these solutions is the great effort for building such an array and the multi-channel sensor electronics. In this contribution the directional characteristic of a single air transducer with segmented electrodes is analyzed. Therefore a variable script based finite element model is used to discover the influence of different electrode configurations on the directional characteristic of a single piezoceramic transducer. Especially the influence on the angle of beam and the near field length are evaluated. The used variable model permits an optimization of the configuration with regards to the mentioned criteria. The findings will be used for the development of a level measurement system for bulk solids.