GAIT: Case Study on Speaker Diaphragm Collaboration

photo of diaphragm using Dinorex UTG™
NEG and GAIT partnership brings glass diaphragm created via 3D molding of ultra-thin glass

Nippon Electric Glass (NEG) and Taiwanese glass diaphragm manufacturer GAIT have jointly developed an innovative glass diaphragm using Ultra-thin Glass for Chemical Strengthening , Dinorex UTG™. By merging NEG’s expertise in ultra-thin glass production with GAIT’s cutting-edge 3D processing technology, the partnership has achieved groundbreaking advancements in sound quality and aesthetic speaker design. This case study highlights the fusion of these technologies, the solutions we offer, and the future potential of this partnership.

About GAIT

Glass Acoustic Innovations Co., Ltd. (GAIT) is a leading Taiwanese manufacturer specializing in glass diaphragms. Its patented glass diaphragm processing technologies—cutting, molding, and reinforcement—redefine the standards of speaker diaphragm materials by using glass. These technologies enable GAIT to deliver high-quality glass diaphragms for a wide range of products, including smart speakers, HiFi speakers, soundbars, headphones, TV speakers, laptop speakers, and automotive audio systems. In March 2024, NEG and GAIT established a strategic partnership to expand product development beyond speaker applications.

Needs and Challenges

  • Traditional speaker diaphragms typically use materials like paper or resin. However, the demand for higher sound quality and more versatile designs has driven the need for alternative materials. Achieving superior acoustics requires materials that are lightweight, highly rigid, and capable of minimizing reverberation—qualities that contribute to enhanced sound performance compared to conventional materials.

Solutions and Proposals

  • NEG’s Ultra-thin Glass for Chemical Strengthening, Dinorex UTG™, renowned for its exceptional flatness and uniform thickness, serves as a key solution. GAIT has maximized the potential of this advanced material by employing state-of-the-art 3D processing techniques. The result is a glass diaphragm that delivers unparalleled acoustic performance while maintaining an elegant, visually appealing design.

Achievements

  • High Sound Quality: The glass’s high Young’s modulus and lightweight properties enable crystal-clear sound reproduction across a broad frequency range.
  • High Durability: Exceptional weather resistance ensures resilience to temperature and humidity fluctuations, reducing long-term degradation for sustained, superior performance.
  • Elegant Design: The transparency of the glass enhances the speaker’s aesthetic, showcasing its sophisticated and visually stunning design.
Q. What are the advantages and unique features of NEG's ultra-thin glass?

NEG’s ultra-thin glass stands out for its exceptional transparency, durability, and quality.
One of its key advantages is its superior strength and impact resistance, which enhance safety and longevity across a wide range of applications—from in-ear earbuds to large-caliber speakers. These qualities make it an ideal choice for audio products requiring both durability and exceptional acoustic performance.
Another standout feature is its combination of lightweight, thin, and robust characteristics, meeting the critical requirements for rigidity and lightness in speaker diaphragm applications.
The potential for future product development with NEG’s glass diaphragms is virtually limitless. GAIT’s expertise further expands the boundaries of glass applications in the audio industry, merging functionality with cutting-edge design.

Q. How was the cooperation and support provided by NEG engineers during the product development process?

NEG engineers provided outstanding support and collaboration throughout the development process. From the beginning, they prioritized understanding GAIT’s specific needs for ultra-thin glass, ensuring the delivery of top-quality products and fostering a strong collaborative partnership.
Their contributions extended beyond supplying premium glass to actively supporting sales channel development. NEG’s open communication, quick responses, and commitment to excellence were instrumental in achieving key project milestones. Their technical expertise and dedication solidified their role as a trusted partner for future innovations.
Through this collaboration, ultra-thin glass has expanded its applications beyond traditional optics and displays into an exciting new domain: sound.