Piezoelectric Actuator Support Structure for Easier Assembly
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing piezoelectric actuators require time-consuming assembly due to the need to fix a plate spring to both the piezoelectric vibrator and a support member, which can interfere with vibration efficiency.
Innovation Solution
A piezoelectric actuator design featuring a piezoelectric element with movable first and second supporters, including a protruding portion that abuts on the second supporter, allowing easy assembly without inhibiting vibration, and utilizing biasing members to maintain contact and support the piezoelectric element during deformation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Loss of energy
If a plate spring is fixed to both the piezoelectric vibrator and a support member, then the vibration energy loss is reduced, but the assembly time increases
Solution Approach 1:
The support structure is divided into two separate supporters (first supporter and second supporter) instead of using a single plate spring. Each supporter independently supports one end surface of the piezoelectric element, eliminating the need for complex fixing operations while maintaining vibration efficiency.
Solution Approach 2:
Instead of fixing the supporters rigidly to the piezoelectric element, the invention allows the supporters to move freely in the direction of vibration. This inversion of the support method reduces assembly complexity while preserving vibration energy.
2Loss of energy
If the first supporter and second supporter are provided separately to move independently, then vibration efficiency is maintained, but the positioning and assembly complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The protruding portion of the first supporter automatically positions the second supporter through abutment during assembly. This self-positioning mechanism eliminates the need for complex external positioning fixtures or procedures, reducing assembly complexity while maintaining independent movement capability.
3Loss of energy
If the protruding portion abuts on the second supporter at a specific distance, then interference between supporters is prevented, but the design constraints increase
Solution Approach 1:
The invention specifies an optimal distance range (0.3 to 0.7 times the piezoelectric element length) for the protruding portion's position. This parameter optimization prevents supporter interference during vibration while maintaining design simplicity through a clearly defined geometric relationship.
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
Facilitates easy assembly of the piezoelectric actuator while maintaining vibration efficiency by preventing interference between supporters and ensuring balanced support, thus enhancing assembly efficiency and vibration stability.
Implementation Method 1
a piezoelectric element (1) having a rectangular shape... The first supporter (50) is provided to be movable according to deformation of the first end surface (2b)... The second supporter (60) is provided to be movable according to deformation of the first side surface (2d)
Implementation Method 2
The first biasing member (71) biases the first supporter (50) in the long side direction (D1) to bring the first supporter into contact with the piezoelectric element (1)... The second biasing member (72) biases the second supporter (60) in the short side direction (D2) to bring the second supporter into contact with the piezoelectric element (1)
Data Source
AI summary
A piezoelectric actuator includes a piezoelectric element having a rectangular shape, a first supporter, and a second supporter. The piezoelectric element includes a pair of main surfaces opposing each other, a first end surface and a second end surface opposing each other in a long side direction of the pair of main surfaces, and a first side surface and a second side surface opposing each other in a short side direction of the pair of main surfaces. The first supporter is provided to be movable according to deformation of the first end surface. The second supporter is provided to be movable according to deformation of the first side surface. The first supporter includes an opposing portion and a protruding portion. The opposing portion opposes the second supporter in the long side direction. The protruding portion protrudes from the opposing portion and abuts on the second supporter.