Abstract: A variable-impedance electro acoustic transducer having multiple voice coils is disclosed. In one implementation, the loudspeaker includes a coil former around which three coils are wound, and a switch in communication with two of the coils such that when the switch is in a first position the loudspeaker has a first net impedance value, and when the switch is in a second position the loudspeaker has a second net impedance value. The impedance can be optimized to provide a driver with unique characteristics in each mode, including, but not limited to ideal amplifier drive impedances, similar or differing driver efficiencies, and varying bass performance in each mode.

Abstract: A method to reduce the noise produced by movement of a substrate is disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes applying a noise-reducing coating material at an add-on rate of at least about three grams per square meter to a target region of a first surface of a substrate so as to substantially completely coat the target area, wherein the noise-reducing coating material comprises a polymeric material. Also disclosed is a reduced-noise composite material that can be employed in a disposable personal care device. The reduced-noise composite material can include a substrate layer which defines a first surface having a surface area and a target area, and a noise-reducing layer which substantially completely coats the target region. The noise-reducing layer has a basis weight of at least about three grams per square meter. Also disclosed is a reduced-noise disposable personal care device, which may in particular embodiments be a disposable absorbent article.

Abstract: A variable-impedance electro acoustic transducer having multiple voice coils is disclosed. In one implementation, the loudspeaker includes a coil former around which three coils are wound, and a switch in communication with two of the coils such that when the switch is in a first position the loudspeaker has a first net impedance value, and when the switch is in a second position the loudspeaker has a second net impedance value. The impedance can be optimized to provide a driver with unique characteristics in each mode, including, but not limited to ideal amplifier drive impedances, similar or differing driver efficiencies, and varying bass performance in each mode.

Abstract: A method to reduce the noise produced by movement of a substrate is disclosed. One embodiment of the method includes applying a noise-reducing coating material at an add-on rate of at least about three grams per square meter to a target region of a first surface of a substrate so as to substantially completely coat the target area, wherein the noise-reducing coating material comprises a polymeric material. Also disclosed is a reduced-noise composite material that can be employed in a disposable personal care device. The reduced-noise composite material can include a substrate layer which defines a first surface having a surface area and a target area, and a noise-reducing layer which substantially completely coats the target region. The noise-reducing layer has a basis weight of at least about three grams per square meter. Also disclosed is a reduced-noise disposable personal care device, which may in particular embodiments be a disposable absorbent article.