Piezoelectric motors use electric fields to create motion in certain crystals or man-made materials. They are small, precise, and use little energy. They work by rapidly switching oscillation frequency on and off, creating continuous movement. They are insensitive to magnetic and electrical interference and can be made from natural crystals, ceramics, or polymers. They have high torque for their size and can be used in a wide variety of applications.
A piezoelectric motor is a device that creates motion when an electric field creates motion in certain crystals or man-made materials. Piezoelectricity was first demonstrated in 1880, when quartz crystals were found to create electric currents when stressed by striking or compressing them. This effect is the opposite of what powers a piezoelectric motor, where electricity is used to create movement from a material sensitive to an electric field.
The need for these engines grew in the late 20th century as the demand for miniaturization increased. Standard electric motors have a practical minimum size limit, below which they cannot operate reliably. A piezoelectric motor can be made in miniature, provides precise motion in very small increments, and uses very little energy while in operation or at rest.
There are very few parts in a piezoelectric motor. A high frequency oscillator provides a frequency which excites the piezoelectric material. This material will change shape based on its crystalline properties. The resulting motion causes the material to contact a sled or roller.
The carriage or roller is coated with a soft rubber or polymer, called a friction lining, which allows the piezoelectric material to grip and move it. Each time the oscillator creates a frequency pulse the material is excited and moves. This causes the sled or roller to move.
A piezoelectric motor takes advantage of this effect by rapidly switching the oscillation frequency on and off. Each pulse creates a small but well-defined movement of the piezoelectric material, and rapid frequency cycling creates continuous movement. Slides can replace rotors for a back and forth motion that can act as a switch.
The biggest advantage of these engines was miniaturization. There are other benefits too, including low power requirements and low maintenance. A piezoelectric motor is also relatively insensitive to magnetic and electrical interference, as the crystalline structure requires specific frequencies to create motion.
Natural crystals including quartz and tourmaline can provide piezoelectric properties. Ceramics based on titanium and other minerals are commonly used. Some polymers based on fluoropolymer technology can also exhibit piezoelectric properties.
A standard electric motor can deliver high speed with low torque, the twisting force that causes rotation. Piezoelectric motors, on the other hand, run at slower speeds but have high torque for their size. Furthermore, they can provide very precise movements not possible with electric motors. The ability to miniaturize to the nanoscale, or microscopic size, allows them to be used in a wide variety of consumer, industrial and medical applications.
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