Realistic acoustic simulation of 2-D probe elements in simulated annealing sparse array optimization

In this study, the benefits of integrating a realistic acoustic simulation in the 2-D non-grid sparse array design are investigated. A wideband shape sensitive (WSS) energy function is introduced. New degrees of freedom in 2-D arrays transducer optimization are thus made available. A related consequence is the capability of distinguishing probes configurations so far considered as performing identically. To clearly illustrate this, we compare the radiated patterns of two 5x5 elements array probes having elements with the same rectangular size and position, but perpendicular orientations. Under linear assumption, an ergonomic data management, here named Fixy method, enables the radiated pattern computation during the optimization process thanks to a 4.8 times speed-up. Finally two optimized probes are compared with an equivalent size full-array. One was optimized using the omnidirectional monochromatic model and the other one using the proposed WSS energy function. To consider the same acoustic radiation of the probe during the optimization as in reality yields promising results.