Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, a transducer element row W.sub.1 through W.sub.m has a signal delay device for the delay of arriving echo signals in such a manner that phase balance of the individual signals result at the output. It is the objective of the disclosure to construct such an apparatus with which, given a specified number of transducers, the grating lobes in the directional response of the antenna are eliminated, and nevertheless the electronic outlay can be kept within boundaries. This objective is achieved in that the signals are transmitted, in groups, respectively, by the delay device to individual adders whose output signals are linked in a unit for quasi-multiplicative processing. In the case of digital technique, through binary signal processing, a considerable simplification results accompanied by the elimination of the interfering directional response of the resolution capability.

Abstract: In the exemplary disclosure, the apparatus includes electronic delay circuitry for delaying echo signals produced in use by a multiplicity of transducers of the apparatus such that the phase relationship between respective echo signals is substantially maintained.

Abstract: In an exemplary embodiment, the transducer elements are arranged in rows and columns, the transducer elements bein contacted at both sides by oppositely disposed contact surfaces, and switches being associated with the contacts of the one contact surface as well as with the contacts of the other contact surface for the purpose of adjustment of preselectable transmitting and/or receiving surface of transducer elements during a transmitting/receiving cycle, in particular, for the purpose of dynamic focusing. It is an object of the disclosure to construct an ultrasonic array which can function with an optimally low outlay of switches and which if desired also permits a transition to continuously varied apertures.

Abstract: In exemplary embodiments, a transmitting layer of material having a relatively high dielectric constant and high acoustic impedance, and a receiving layer of material having a relatively low dielectric constant and low acoustic impedance are superimposed such that an optimum construction is provided which simultaneously creates optimum results for the instance of transmission and reception. The two layers are interconnected by means of hybrid techniques such that they mate in a laminar manner.