Automated parameters measurement of the ultrasonic excitation equipment

It was demonstrated that there is a demand for complex pulse series generation in spread spectrum and air-coupled ultrasonic measurements. Existing standards and research do not account ultrasonic pulser parameters essential for such applications. Demand for new, automated performance evaluation measurements has been outlined. Structure of the dedicated ultrasonic data acquisition system for pulser performance investigation is presented. Performance evaluation involves automated measurement of standard parameters, such as attainable voltage range, rise and fall fronts. Additionally, new parameters, essential for spread spectrum signal generation are rectified and accounted. Pulser output impedance measurement setup and procedure was developed. Measured impedance interaction with ultrasonic transducer can be evaluated for attainable power delivery efficiency and bandwidth. Pulser output AC response measurement equipment and procedure was developed. Intrinsic losses are accounted by measuring the energy per pulse consumption. Pulser output versus several types of load can be measured, resulting in performance evaluation under conditions that are closer to the real load type. Preliminary investigation results of the representative pulser are presented.