A thermoacoustic generator includes a housing with a thermoacoustic core
supported in the housing. The core is operable to introduce acoustical
power into the housing to thereby oscillate the pressure of the gas in
the housing at a frequency. A piezoelectric alternator is also supported
in the housing and has a face that is movable when acted on by the
acoustical power. The alternator includes a portion of piezoelectric
material operable to produce electrical power when acted upon by a
stress. The piezoelectric material is in mechanical communication with
the movable face so that movement of the face stresses the piezoelectric
material. The alternator has a moving mass that serves as a substantial
portion of the resonating mass inside the housing, thereby providing a
pressure oscillation frequency in the housing substantially lower than
for a similar system with a rigid member replacing the alternator.