Design of a Distributed Mode Loudspeaker radiating system for underwater acoustics

Distributed mode loudspeakers (DML) consist of an actuator attached to a plate. This paper presents the process followed to characterize a radiating system based on this concept, designed to radiate in an aquatic environment. The characteristics of the radiating system depend, as expected, on both the actuator and the dimensions and mechanical properties of the plate. A prototype has been designed and built that allows the plate to be changed and the frequency response of the different options to be compared, with the radiated power being controlled by the signal picked up by an accelerometer placed on the vibrating plate.