Robert Malkin

Imaging of acoustic fields using optical feedback interferometry

This study introduces optical feedback interferometry as a simple and effective technique for the two-dimensional visualisation of acoustic fields. We present imaging results for several pressure distributions including those for progressive waves, standing waves, as well as the diffraction and interference patterns of the acoustic waves. The proposed solution has the distinct advantage of extreme optical simplicity and robustness thus opening the way to a low cost acoustic field imaging system based on mass produced laser diodes.

Tree crickets optimize the acoustics of baffles to exaggerate their mate-attraction signal

Object manufacture in insects is typically inherited, and believed to be highly stereotyped. Optimization, the ability to select the functionally best material and modify it appropriately for a specific function, implies flexibility and is usually thought to be incompatible with inherited behaviour. Here, we show that tree-crickets optimize acoustic baffles, objects that are used to increase the effective loudness of mate-attraction calls. We quantified the acoustic efficiency of all baffles within the naturally feasible design space using finite-element modelling and found that design affects efficiency significantly. We tested the baffle-making behaviour of tree crickets in a series of experimental contexts. We found that given the opportunity, tree crickets optimised baffle acoustics; they selected the best sized object and modified it appropriately to make a near optimal baffle. Surprisingly, optimization could be achieved in a single attempt, and is likely to be achieved through an inherited yet highly accurate behavioural heuristic.

Three-dimensional ultrasonic trapping of micro-particles in water with a simple and compact two-element transducer

We report a simple and compact piezoelectric transducer capable of stably trapping single and multiple micro-particles in water. A 3D-printed Fresnel lens is bonded to a two-element kerfless piezoceramic disk and actuated in a split-piston mode to produce an acoustic radiation force trap that is stable in three-dimensions. Polystyrene micro-particles in the Rayleigh regime (radius λ/14 to λ/7) are trapped at the focus of the lens (F# = 0.4) and manipulated in two-dimensions on an acoustically transparent membrane with a peak trap stiffness of 0.43 mN/m. Clusters of Rayleigh particles are also trapped and manipulated in three-dimensions, suspended in water against gravity. This transducer represents a significant simplification over previous acoustic devices used for micro-particle manipulation in liquids as it operates at relatively low frequency (688 kHz) and only requires a single electrical drive signal. This simplified device has potential for widespread use in applications such as micro-scale manufac...

Quantitative imaging of acoustic reflection and interference

This paper presents a method for time resolved quantitative imaging of acoustic waves. We present the theoretical background, the experimental method and the comparison between experimental and numerical reconstructions of acoustic reflection and interference. Laser Doppler vibrometry is used to detect the modulation of the propagation velocity of light, �� , due to pressure-dependant changes in the refractive index of air. Variation in �� is known to be proportional to variation in acoustic pressure and thus can be used to quantify sound pressure fluctuations. The method requires the laser beam to travel through the sound field, in effect integrating pressure along a transect line. We investigate the applicability of the method, in particular the effect of the geometry of the sound radiator on line integration. Both experimental and finite element reconstructions of the sound field are in good agreement, corroborating punctual pressure measurements from a precision microphone. Spatial limitations and accuracy of the method are presented and discussed.