Piezoelectric Resonator Node Generator Layout for Higher Q Factor

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Solution Overview

Problem

Conventional resonators experience reduced Q factor due to anchor loss, as the vibrating portion is held by holding arms, which leads to vibration leakage and increased energy dissipation.

Innovation Solution

The resonator design incorporates piezoelectric vibrators with strategically positioned node generators and connecting arms that form nodes in X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis directions, reducing anchor loss by minimizing vibration propagation to the holding frame, thereby increasing the Q factor.

Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles

VSEngineering Contradiction Analysis

1Reliability

If the vibrating portion is connected to the holding portion by holding arms, then the resonator can be mechanically supported and positioned, but vibration leakage occurs and anchor loss increases, reducing the Q factor

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvemechanical support stabilityVSAvoidanchor loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ReliabilityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent introduces holding arms as intermediary elements between the vibrating portion and the holding portion. These holding arms are specifically designed with node formation capability to act as vibration isolation mediators, allowing mechanical support while minimizing vibration transmission to the anchor points, thus reducing anchor loss.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #24Intermediary (Mediator)

Solution Approach 2:

The patent employs asymmetric structural design in the holding arms and node generators, where the geometry and material distribution are optimized to create specific vibration nodes at strategic locations. This asymmetric configuration ensures that vibration nodes form precisely at the connection points with the holding portion, effectively decoupling the vibrating portion from the anchor loss pathway while maintaining mechanical support.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #4Asymmetry

2Productivity

If nodes are generated near the centers of the sides parallel to the vibration direction, then width expansion mode vibration is effectively excited, but anchor loss still occurs in directions not considered by the aspect ratio optimization

Engineering Contradiction:
Improvevibration excitation efficiencyVSAvoidanchor loss
Core Design Contradiction:
ProductivityVSLoss of energy

Solution Approach 1:

The patent extends the node generation concept from one-dimensional optimization (aspect ratio for width expansion mode) to three-dimensional node distribution. By forming vibration nodes not only near the centers of sides parallel to the vibration direction but also considering the thickness direction and perpendicular directions, the patent creates a comprehensive multi-dimensional node network that effectively suppresses anchor loss in all spatial dimensions.

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

Solution Approach 2:

The patent applies local quality enhancement by strategically positioning node generators at specific locations where vibration nodes naturally form. The holding arms and node generators are designed with localized geometric features and material properties that promote node formation at critical positions, creating high-quality vibration isolation zones precisely where needed to prevent energy loss to the anchor points.

Inventive Principle:
Principle #3Local quality

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 effectively reduces anchor loss and enhances the Q factor of the resonator by optimizing the placement and shape of node generators and connecting arms, leading to improved vibration isolation and energy retention.

Implementation Method 1

a piezoelectric vibrator; a frame provided in at least a part of a region around the piezoelectric vibrating portion

Methodology Applied
Scientific EffectPiezoelectric effect: Piezoelectric Effect

Data Source

PatentUS11251776B2Resonator and resonance device
Publication Date: 2022.02.15 MURATA MFG CO LTD
  • US11251776B2 patent drawing
  • US11251776B2 patent drawing
  • US11251776B2 patent drawing

AI summary

A resonator that includes a piezoelectric vibrator, a frame, and a first node generator between the piezoelectric vibrator and the frame. Moreover, a first connecting arm connects the first node generator to the piezoelectric vibrator that opposes the first, and a first holding arm connects the first node generator to a part of the frame that opposes the first node generator. The first node generator includes a width extending in a second direction, which is orthogonal to a first direction of the first connecting arm, that is a maximum width where the first node generator is closer to the first connecting arm than a center of the first node generator relative to the first direction. Moreover, the width of the first node generator gradually decreases from the maximum width as the first node generator extends towards the first holding arm.