Multi-Arm Resonator Structure for Improved Drive Level Dependency

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Solution Overview

Problem

Existing resonators face challenges in improving drive level dependency (DLD) due to miniaturization, where setting the connecting position of the holding arm to less than a predetermined ratio with respect to the base length is insufficient.

Innovation Solution

A resonator design featuring a vibration member with multiple vibration arms performing out-of-plane bending at different phases, a base connected to the vibration arms, and support arms connected to a frame, which enhances the vibration characteristics and durability while improving DLD.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Volume of moving object

If the resonator is miniaturized to reduce size, then the device dimensions are reduced, but the drive level dependency (DLD) deteriorates and cannot be improved by conventional connecting position adjustment

Engineering Contradiction:
Improveresonator sizeVSAvoiddrive level dependency (DLD)
Core Design Contradiction:
Volume of moving objectVSReliability

Solution Approach 1:

The resonator is divided into distinct functional segments: a vibration portion with multiple vibration arms for generating vibration, a base for supporting the vibration arms, and support arms connecting the base to the holding portion. This segmentation allows independent optimization of each component's function and position, enabling improved DLD characteristics even in miniaturized configurations.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #1Segmentation

Solution Approach 2:

The invention introduces a vertical dimension by having the vibration arms perform out-of-plane bending vibration perpendicular to the base plane. This three-dimensional vibration mode, combined with the support arms extending from the holding portion to the base, creates a spatial structure that maintains effective vibration amplitude and DLD performance despite reduced overall device dimensions.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #17Another dimension (Dimensionality change)

2Reliability

If the connecting position of the holding arm is set to less than a predetermined ratio with respect to the base length, then the DLD is improved in conventional resonators, but this method becomes insufficient for miniaturized resonators

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvedrive level dependency (DLD)VSAvoidstructural complexity
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSDevice complexity

Solution Approach 1:

The support arms are designed with flexible properties allowing them to dynamically respond to vibration forces. The support arms connect the holding portion to the base in a manner that provides both mechanical support and controlled flexibility, enabling the structure to adapt to vibration demands while maintaining simple geometry suitable for miniaturization.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #15Dynamics

Solution Approach 2:

The base integrates multiple functions: it supports the vibration arms at their fixed ends, connects to the support arms from the holding portion, and serves as the reference plane for out-of-plane bending vibration. This merging of functions into a single component reduces overall structural complexity while maintaining effective DLD control.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #5Merging (Combining)

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

The design achieves improved drive level dependency (DLD) by increasing the deflection of the base and reducing the frequency change rate per unit power, effectively addressing the limitations of miniaturized resonators.

Implementation Method 1

a plurality of vibration arms of three or more vibration arms each having a fixed end, among which at least two vibration arms perform out-of-plane bending at different phases

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectBending vibration: Vibration

Implementation Method 2

two support arms with first ends being connected to the frame and second ends being connected to one location at the other end of the base

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectMechanical force transmission: Force

Data Source

PatentUS11804820B2Resonator and resonance device
Publication Date: 2023.10.31 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US11804820B2 patent drawing
  • US11804820B2 patent drawing
  • US11804820B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A resonator is provided that includes a vibration member including three or more vibration arms that each have a fixed end with at least two vibration arms performing out-of-plane bending at different phases. The resonator also includes a base having a front end connected to the fixed end of each of the vibration arms and a rear end opposing the front end. A frame holds the vibration member and two support arms are provided with first ends connected to the frame. The second ends of the two support arms are connected to a location in the rear end of the base.