MSI has successfully delivered a production version of a first-of-its-kind transducer array to Sonartech-ATLAS (Sydney, Australia). The wideband (100-200 kHz) parabolic-shaped transducer is a key component of the newly-introduced ATLAS Hydrographic FANSWEEP Coastal (FS 30C) shallow-water multibeam system.

The MSI FANSWEEP transducer array is unique in its ability to provide continuous, gap-free, high-resolution bathymetry out to extreme swath angles using curved face geometry to evenly distribute maximum sound energy to all ensonified seafloor sectors.

"Our company's distinctive capability to injection-mold and layer our array elements into complex shapes and contours, as well as our ability to exploit the inherent wideband performance of 1-3 piezocomposite material were the keys to making this program a success" said Dr. Les Bowen, MSI Founder and President.

Sonartech's Managing Director, Gordon Hargreave, agreed stating: "The FS 30C is arguably the single biggest advance in multibeam technology, made possible through the exploitation of MSI's transducer technology. We are obviously delighted to have now set the new performance benchmark for multibeam systems".

Despite the significant distance and time differences between the companies, the MSI and Sonartech design teams successfully collaborated to develop and demonstrate a truly innovative transducer array for the world's most advanced multibeam sonar system.

MSI's custom sonar transducers and arrays use injection molded piezocomposite material. Transducers and arrays offer wide bandwidth and can be easily curved. The company's core strength lies in its ability to understand customers' sophisticated systems requirements and to provide complete solutions that integrate engineering and innovative design with high or low volume manufacturing.

More information on the FS 30C can be found at www.atlashydro.com.