With the smartphone market becoming increasingly competitive, the electronics industry is challenged to produce improved micro speakers with higher quality and performance. In particular, they must be able to support higher sound output and a broader range of frequencies for a louder and richer sound experience without compromising the functionality of the device.
In micro speakers, diaphragms of only a few microns thick play a key role in delivering an improved acoustic experience. However, even a minute variability in film and diaphragm thickness could cause defects in acoustic performance and reliability. Improved material quality and in-depth design and processing know-how are required amongst other things to avoid that.
“In my opinion tighter thickness tolerances will give a speaker builder not only better yield, but also the ability to sell products to top brands – and achieve a premium in the market”, commented Guangbin Shi, currently Senior Audio Electrical Engineer, Hytera, and formerly Audio Engineer at ZTE, a major Chinese handset OEM.
With a thickness tolerance of +/-5%, Victrex’s new APTIV DBX film, has been optimised for micro speaker diaphragms, and is expected to enable more uniform laminate thickness, resulting in greater part-to-part consistency. This should lead to lower F0 & THD** variability, meaning more consistent acoustic performance.
Generally, by reducing the variance in film thickness it is possible to increase yield, lower overall manufacturing costs by reducing scrap, and help to meet production ramps on schedule. In turn, laminators should be confident that winding and handling will be easier, while speaker builders will better be able to meet OEM specs and supply quality parts consistently.
“To address changing market challenges, we continually focus on improving our product offerings; APTIV DBX is clear proof of that”, said Takaharu Kannari, Director Electronics at Victrex. “We’re convinced it can contribute to significant benefits, from the design to the manufacturing of micro speakers and headphones, including improved performance and reliability. We will continue to research and develop products that can help our customers to stay ahead of the game.”
