Topologies of Paper Speakers

When considering the aesthetics of our paper speakers, it is important to understand how the design of the coil will affect the sound being produced, and therefore the effectiveness of the speaker.

The majority of research found on paper speakers has used simple round coils, yet there are three main topologies of “circuit design” that can be used to “generate a magnetic field capable” of producing sound:

1.     SPIRAL: This formation is “most effective” yet only a single circuit can be produced. “Once the signal arrives at the end of the spiral, the only effective way to continue with any serial connection would be to break away from the plane, or break into the surface of the plane.”

2.     PARALLEL: This is an “open C like structure” unlike the “closed spiral loop” pattern. Multiple circuits can be made and connected together allowing for increased possibilities in terms of visual design.

3.     SPARSE: This is the “least effective” topology. The design is “either a spiral or parallel structure in disguise.” “Any kind of texture can be used to create such a structure by strategically breaking connections within the texture so that current will flow in a desired path.” The technology of the speaker is “completely hidden” and therefore the aesthetics that can be created are limitless. The “flow of current” however is very “inexact”, making the structure less effective than the other two.

The research shows increased possibilities in the development of visual design for our speaker products. It would be exciting to see through sampling with conductive paint, thread and tape, how far each structure can be pushed before it impacts on the sound that can be produced.

Rowland, J. (2012). CNMAT. Retrieved from http://cnmat.berkeley.edu/new_music/people/4752.