Elastomeric dielectric polymer film sonic actuator
US6343129B1 · kind B1 · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Jul 19, 1999 |
| Grant date | Jan 29, 2002 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Jul 19, 2019 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC H)Electricity
- CPC primaryH04R2499/13
- WIPO fieldAudio-visual technology
- WIPO sectorElectrical engineering
Abstract
A sonic actuator including a multi-layer membrane having an elastomeric dielectric polymer layer with a first surface and a second surface, a first compliant electrode layer contacting the first surface of the polymer layer, and a second compliant electrode layer contacting the second surface of the polymer layer. The actuator further includes a support structure in contact with the sonic actuator film. Preferably, the dielectric polymer is selected from the group consisting essentially of silicone, polyurethane fluorosilicone, fluoroelastomer, natural rubber, polybutadiene, nitrile rubber, isoprene, and ethylene propylene diene. Also preferably, the compliant electrode layer is made from the group consisting essentially of graphite, carbon, and conductive polymers. The support structure can take the form of grid having a number of circular apertures. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes, portions of the film held at the aperture of the support structure can bulge due to the electrostriction phenomenon. The resultant “bubbles” can be driven to generate sonic vibrations, or can be used to create a variable surface for airflow control.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.