TY - JOUR TI - Paper-based acoustic transducers with tunable resonance DO - https://doi.org/doi:10.7282/T38K7C2J PY - 2015 AB - This thesis describes the use of metallized paper as an electrostatically-driven, tunable acoustic source. Cutting the paper into different patterns and shapes alters the frequency response of the vibrating membranes. This work includes the experimental characterization of five patterns with distinct responses and provides qualitative simulations to verify the observed behaviors. With this unique platform, the author demonstrates a potential application – similar to barcode scanning – that identifies objects based on their acoustic signatures. In addition, it is possible to detect changes in acoustic signatures as a result of placing slits in the membranes, which suggests the platform may be applicable to anti-tampering or security-based technologies. Changes in the measured acoustic amplitudes of vibration were as large as 50%, and for cases of intentionally patterned devices, detection of tampering and incisions in membranes resulted in changes in mechanical resonance of 12%. Overall, this platform suggests the potential viability for a new class of smart packaging that makes use of metallized paper as an environmentally benign and low-cost material. KW - Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering KW - Electroacoustic transducers KW - Acoustics LA - eng ER -