| abstract |
(57) Abstract: A sonic actuator comprises an elastic dielectric polymer layer having a first surface and a second surface, a first flexible electrode layer in contact with the first surface, and a second flexible electrode layer in contact with the second surface. A multilayer thin film having a flexible electrode layer. The sonic actuator further comprises a support structure that contacts the sonic actuator film. Preferably, the dielectric polymer is selected from the group consisting essentially of silicone, fluorinated silicone, fluorinated elastomer, natural rubber, polybutylene, nitrile rubber, isoprene and ethylene propylene diene. Also, the flexible electrode layer is preferably selected from the group consisting essentially of graphite, carbon, conductive polymer and metal thin film. The support structure may be a grid having a plurality of holes. When a voltage is applied to the electrodes, the portion of the film held in the holes of the support structure may swell due to the reduced electrostriction. The resulting "bubbles" may be modulated to create sonic vibrations or may be used to form a variable surface for airflow control. |