Date: Apr 25, 2013 Author: press release Source: Company Data (
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MSI recently delivered its 500th Forward Looking Sonar (FLS) for U.S. Navy Unmanned Underwater Vehicle (UUVs), and the company's flexible approach to design and manufacturing is helping the Navy to adapt to emerging threats in less time than ever before
Piezocomposite technology has made it easy for MSI to develop custom FLS arrays to address evolving U.S. Navy requirements. Applications now include obstacle avoidance, mine detection, torpedo homing and feature-based navigation. Array size, geometry, and curvature were easily adjusted for each of these four applications to produce the sensitivity, aperture, and beampattern needed. In some cases, electrode shading was applied to minimize sidelobes. KLM and FEA modeling tools were used to predict and optimize performance. Then prototypes were built and tested to validate performance before production began.
MSI builds arrays with center frequencies between 10 kHz and 1 MHz, with some receive arrays operating even lower. All FLS arrays include MSI's broad bandwidth piezocomposite technology to enhance range and resolution, and they all take advantage of its ability to transmit and receive using the same transducer elements. Several techniques are being leveraged to produce these arrays in high volume. Piezoceramic performs are being injection molded to reduce touch labor. Layered manufacturing techniques are helping to facilitate mechanical assembly and electrical interconnect of 100 or more elements at the same time. Lean manufacturing techniques are also being applied to maximize efficiency.
As new threats continue to emerge, the U.S. Navy's mission will continue to change. Flexibility in design and manufacturing is more important than ever before. Array developers must be able to adapt at a rapid pace. In the area of Forward Looking Sonar, MSI is demonstrating that it is well positioned to meet this essential need.
For more information please contact:
Gerald Schmidt
MSI
543 Great Road
Littleton, MA 01460 USA
978-486-0404
jschmidt@matsysinc.com
About MSI
Materials Systems Inc. (MSI) of Littleton, MA, designs and manufactures custom sonar transducers and arrays. MSI's piezocomposite technology offers extremely broad bandwidth, high transmit and receive sensitivity, high source levels, conformability for curved arrays, and reduced side lobes. The technology has enabled several of the most advanced sonar systems available today.
MSI has a staff of experienced design engineers ready to help you with your transducer requirements. Our process of engaging our team early in the design process allows customers to maximize performance capabilities while also minimizing the total cost.
MSI's manufacturing capabilities are designed to assure you receive the highest quality products. Our advanced manufacturing and testing capabilities allow us to turn raw materials into finished assemblies that are ready for system integration.
Visit us at www.msisonar.com
