Amplified Piezoelectric Interferometer Positioning Without Laser Metrology
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Solution Overview
Problem
Interferometers in spectrometers require a secondary laser-based optical system to accurately measure the position of moving reflectors, adding complexity and cost to the design.
Innovation Solution
An amplified piezoelectric actuator is used to move optical components, with the position determined by the driving voltage applied or through associated sensing gauges like strain or capacitance gauges, eliminating the need for a secondary optical system.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If a secondary laser-based optical system is used to measure the position of moving reflectors, then measurement precision is improved, but device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric actuator serves dual functions: it actuates the moving reflector and simultaneously provides position feedback through its inherent voltage-position relationship. The actuator monitors its own state via embedded strain gauges or capacitance gauges, eliminating the need for external laser measurement systems while maintaining measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The piezoelectric actuator is designed to perform multiple functions: it acts as both the actuation mechanism for moving the reflector and as the position sensing element. This multi-functional design integrates measurement capabilities into the actuator itself, reducing overall system complexity while preserving measurement accuracy.
2Measurement precision
If a secondary laser-based optical system is used to measure the position of moving reflectors, then measurement precision is improved, but manufacturing cost increases
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric actuator with integrated sensing gauges provides self-monitoring capabilities, eliminating the need for expensive external laser measurement systems. This self-service approach significantly reduces manufacturing costs while maintaining the required measurement precision for interferometer operation.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces expensive, complex laser-based optical measurement systems with simpler, more cost-effective piezoelectric actuators equipped with basic strain or capacitance gauges. This substitution uses more affordable components to achieve the same measurement function, reducing overall system cost.
3Device complexity
If an amplified piezoelectric actuator is used to move optical components, then device complexity is reduced, but manufacturing precision requirements increase
Solution Approach 1:
The piezoelectric actuator incorporates feedback mechanisms through embedded strain gauges or capacitance gauges that continuously monitor the position of the moving reflector. This feedback enables precise control and compensation for manufacturing tolerances, ensuring accurate positioning despite the simplified actuator design.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent utilizes the voltage-dependent displacement characteristic of piezoelectric materials to achieve precise position control. By carefully controlling the applied voltage and utilizing the linear relationship between voltage and displacement in the elastic range, the system achieves high positioning precision through electrical parameter control rather than mechanical precision alone.
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 design by accurately controlling the position of optical components without the need for a secondary laser system, enhancing precision and reducing complexity and cost.
Implementation Method 1
an amplified piezoelectric actuator configured to move an optical component
Implementation Method 2
the position is determined by use of an associated gauge (e.g., a strain gauge, a capacitance gauge, or other gauge) capable of sensing the physical movement of the amplified piezoelectric actuator
Data Source
AI summary
The present disclosure relates to an interferometer having an amplified piezoelectric actuator configured to move an optical component. Such an interferometer can be optimized for use in any region of the electromagnetic spectrum and can be used with various applications such as, but not limited to, spectroscopy.