Flexible sound generator based on thermoacoustic effect

A flexible sound generator based on the thermoacoustic effect was developed. The device consists of a flexible substrate, a thermal insulating layer, and a surface electrode. Very thin films made of organic materials were used as the substrate and insulating layer. We detected sound from this device. Various acoustic properties were also evaluated. These results indicate that the fabricated device generates sound based on the thermoacoustic effect. This device is very thin, lightweight and flexible. It is expected that the device will be applied to flexible sensors, actuators, and loudspeakers.