Piezoelectric Actuator Reduction Inhibition Layer
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Solution Overview
Problem
Piezoelectric thin films used in ink-jet head actuators degrade due to reduction reactions at high temperatures, leading to leakage currents and reduced performance over time.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating a reduction inhibition layer between the piezoelectric layer and the vibration plate to prevent oxygen movement and inhibit reduction reactions, thereby maintaining the actuator's characteristics even at elevated temperatures.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Reliability
If the piezoelectric layer is used without a reduction inhibition layer, then the device complexity is reduced, but the piezoelectric layer undergoes reduction reaction at high temperature causing leakage current and performance degradation
Solution Approach 1:
A reduction inhibition layer is introduced as an intermediary between the piezoelectric layer and the vibration plate. This layer prevents oxygen from reaching the piezoelectric layer, thereby inhibiting reduction reactions that cause leakage current and performance degradation at high temperatures
Solution Approach 2:
The reduction inhibition layer creates an oxygen-free (inert) environment around the piezoelectric layer by blocking oxygen diffusion. This prevents oxidative and reduction reactions that would otherwise degrade the piezoelectric material during continuous operation at elevated temperatures
2Productivity
If the actuator is continuously used at high temperature, then the productivity is improved, but the piezoelectric layer undergoes denaturation leading to leakage current
Solution Approach 1:
The reduction inhibition layer is pre-installed between the piezoelectric layer and vibration plate before operation begins. This preliminary protective measure prevents oxygen contact with the piezoelectric layer during continuous high-temperature operation, thereby preventing denaturation and leakage current development over time
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
Significantly extends the operational time before leakage current occurs, ensuring reliable performance of the actuator by preventing denaturation of the piezoelectric layer, with the reduction inhibition layer effectively delaying the onset of leakage current for over 1000 hours compared to less than 100 hours without the layer.
Implementation Method 1
The piezoelectric thin film deforms when voltage is applied on the piezoelectric thin film, and the volume of the pressure chamber decreases accordingly
Implementation Method 2
The reduction inhibition layer is disposed between the piezoelectric layer and the vibration plate, and configured to inhibit reduction reaction in the piezoelectric layer
Data Source
AI summary
An actuator includes a piezoelectric layer, a vibration plate, and a reduction inhibition layer. The piezoelectric layer includes an oxide material. The vibration plate is disposed below the piezoelectric layer, and configured to deform when the piezoelectric layer deforms. The reduction inhibition layer is disposed between the piezoelectric layer and the vibration plate, and configured to inhibit reduction reaction in the piezoelectric layer.