Abstract: An acoustic transducer including a diaphragm having an electrical conductor applied thereto such that at least one segment of the conductor is selectively separable from the diaphragm in response to electric power being applied to the conductor to thereby provide thermal stress relief to the diaphragm during use.

Abstract: A diaphragm mounting system for flat acoustic planar magnetic and electrostatic transducers which incorporates opposing frame sections, each of which defines a clamping or peripheral surface area and an internal or central area through which acoustic waves may pass from the diaphragm. The diaphragm is first placed on one frame section with zero plus tension. The second frame section includes a protruding ridge extending substantially along an inner edge of the central area which ridge defines a border for a sound producing area of the diaphragm. During assembly of the two frame sections, the ridge engages the diaphragm to place predetermined tension on the diaphragm as the sections are joined. In one embodiment, the profile of the ridge is shaped to provide predetermined biaxial tension in a diaphragm of generally rectangular shape.