Patent ID: 6985407
Filing Date: 2006-01-10
Classification: B06B

Abstract:
1. A multi-layer composite transducer array, comprising: at least one pair of composite transducers, each of said composite transducers defined by a piezoelectric polymer composite panel having opposing first and second surfaces with at least one common electrode coupled to said first surface and a plurality of electrode segments electrically isolated from one another and coupled to said second surface; each said pair of composite transducers configured such that said plurality of electrode segments associated with a first composite transducer of said pair of composite transducers oppose and are aligned with said plurality of electrode segments associated with a second composite transducer of said pair of composite transducers; a layer of dielectric material segments interposed between said first composite transducer and said second composite transducer, said dielectric material segments in said layer being sized, shaped and aligned in correspondence with opposing and aligned ones of said plurality of electrode segments associated with said first composite transducer and said second composite transducer, wherein spaces are formed in said layer between said dielectric material segments; and a viscoelastic material filling said spaces formed in said layer, wherein said layer of dielectric material segments in combination with said viscoelastic material defines an isolation layer.