title: Acoustical performance of an electrostrictive polymer film loudspeaker
abstract: A new type of loudspeaker that generates sound by means of the electrostrictive response of a thin polymer film is described. Electrostrictive polymer film (EPF) loudspeakers are constructed with inexpensive, lightweight materials and have a very low profile. The films are typically silicone and are coated with compliant electrodes to allow large film deformations. Acoustical frequency response measurements from 5 x 5 cm (planar dimensions) prototype EPF loudspeakers are presented. Measurements of harmonic distortion are also shown, along with results demonstrating reduced harmonic distortion achieved with square-root wave shaping. Applications of EPF loudspeakers include active noise control and general-purpose flat-panel loudspeakers.
authors.affiliation: SRI International, Menlo Park, California 94025, USA.
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Heydt
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Pelrine
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Joseph
authors.initials: J
authors.lastname: Eckerle
authors.initials: R
authors.lastname: Kornbluh