Vibration-Type Actuator Driving Circuit with Power-Based Frequency Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Vibration-type actuators with multiple vibrators face complexity in circuit design due to the need for individual phase difference monitoring and frequency control, leading to abrupt speed reductions and increased power consumption when overloaded or with varying characteristics among vibrators.
Innovation Solution
A driving apparatus with a single phase detection unit and signal processing circuit that sets the driving frequency based on the total power consumption of multiple vibrators, using a microcomputer to manage voltage pulses and impedance matching for efficient power distribution across multiple vibrators.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If individual phase difference monitoring and frequency control is implemented for each vibrator, then the speed control precision is improved, but the circuit design complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent combines multiple phase difference detection functions into a single detection circuit that processes signals from all vibrators simultaneously. Instead of having separate detection circuits for each vibrator, one unified circuit monitors the composite signal, thereby reducing circuit complexity while maintaining detection precision through signal processing techniques.
Solution Approach 2:
The single phase difference detection circuit is designed to handle multiple vibrators universally, performing the same detection function for all vibrators through a unified approach. This multi-functional circuit replaces multiple specialized circuits, reducing overall system complexity while maintaining the ability to detect phase differences accurately.
2Use of energy by moving object
If driving frequency is reduced to prevent excessive power consumption, then the power usage is improved, but the driving speed decreases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent implements dynamic frequency adjustment where the driving frequency is continuously optimized based on real-time operating conditions. The system dynamically selects the optimal frequency point that balances power consumption and driving speed, rather than using a fixed low frequency, thereby achieving both energy efficiency and maintained speed performance.
Solution Approach 2:
The system changes the driving frequency parameter adaptively based on load conditions and vibrator characteristics. By optimizing the frequency parameter rather than simply reducing it, the system achieves efficient power usage while preventing the abrupt speed reductions that would result from excessive frequency lowering.
3Loss of energy
If the driving frequency is set too low to reduce power consumption, then the energy efficiency is improved, but an abrupt reduction in speed occurs
Solution Approach 1:
The patent incorporates feedback mechanisms that monitor both power consumption and driving speed simultaneously. When the system detects that reducing frequency begins to cause abrupt speed reductions, the feedback loop adjusts the frequency back to an optimal range, thereby maintaining speed stability while preserving energy efficiency through intelligent control rather than extreme frequency reduction.
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
This approach simplifies the circuit design, prevents abrupt speed reductions, and maintains efficient power usage by adjusting the driving frequency to avoid excessive power consumption, ensuring stable operation across a range of frequencies and varying vibrator characteristics.
Implementation Method 1
A piezoelectric element (electromechanical transducer) 5 is bonded to a back surface of the elastic element 4. When an AC voltage is applied to the piezoelectric element 5, a second-order bending vibration in a direction along longer sides of the elastic element 4 and a first-order bending vibration in a direction along shorter sides of the elastic element 4 occur simultaneously
Implementation Method 2
the element 7 is driven linearly by the elliptic motion of the protruding parts 6. the protruding parts 6 function as a driving unit of the vibrator
Data Source
AI summary
A driving apparatus of a vibration-type actuator includes a driving circuit configured to drive a vibration unit including a plurality of vibrators, a detection unit configured to detect a sum of power consumption consumed by the plurality of vibrators, and a driving frequency setting unit configured to set a driving frequency within a frequency range depending on the sum of power consumption detected by the detection unit.