A system and method of operation is described which utilizes an array of piezoelectric actuators distributed over the surface of a diaphragm. In one embodiment, the piezoelectric actuator array is used to cause a net motion of the diaphragm equal to the sum of the motions of each individual sub-chamber diaphragm. The system can be used as a sensor where a common motion applied to the sub-chamber diaphragm causes a net charge equal to the sum of the charges on each piezoelectric diaphragm.