Tuning Fork Vibrator Cushioning Structure for Frequency Stability
Find Innovative SolutionsGenerate Solutions
Solution Overview
Problem
Miniaturization of tuning fork-type vibrators has led to increased susceptibility to frequency fluctuations due to external impacts, as existing cushioning methods are inadequate in preventing damage to the arm portions, which can result in contact with the lid member and subsequent breakage or frequency changes.
Innovation Solution
The implementation of frequency adjustment metal films on the arm portions, which are partly removed along their longitudinal direction to ensure contact with the lid member in case of warping, thereby avoiding contact with the edges and potential damage, along with a manufacturing method that includes forming these films and metal bumps in a single step to enhance shock resistance.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Volume of moving object
If the tuning fork-type vibration piece is miniaturized to reduce device size, then the outer dimensions are reduced, but the susceptibility to frequency fluctuations from external impacts increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent applies beforehand cushioning by providing a cushioning portion on the bottom surface of the package that protrudes upward. This cushioning portion is positioned to contact the arm portions of the vibration piece before they can contact the bottom surface during impact, thereby preventing damage in advance. The cushioning material absorbs impact energy and prevents direct contact between the fragile arm portions and the hard package bottom surface.
2Reliability
If a cushioning portion is added to prevent impact damage, then shock resistance is improved, but the device complexity increases
Solution Approach 1:
The patent merges the cushioning portion with the package bottom surface, making it an integrated component rather than a separate element. The cushioning portion is formed as a protrusion from the bottom surface itself, combining the package structure and cushioning function into a single integrated component, thereby reducing overall device complexity while maintaining shock resistance.
Solution Approach 2:
The bottom surface of the package serves multiple functions: it provides structural support for the vibration piece and simultaneously acts as a cushioning element through the protruding portion. This multi-functionality eliminates the need for separate cushioning components, reducing device complexity while maintaining shock protection capabilities.
3Reliability
If the arm portions are allowed to contact the lid member during warping, then the cushioning effect is achieved, but the edges of arm portions may chip off causing frequency fluctuations
Solution Approach 1:
The patent introduces frequency adjustment metal films as intermediary elements between the arm portions and the lid member. These metal films are formed on the arm portions and extend toward the lid member, serving as a protective intermediary that contacts the lid member first during impact, preventing direct contact between the lid member and the vulnerable edges of the arm portions, thereby avoiding chipping while maintaining the cushioning effect.
Data Source
AI summary
A tuning fork-type vibration piece is provided, in which a cushioning portion is formed on the base of a package and allowed to contact parts for contact of arm portions which are any parts but their edges, and the parts for contact of the arm portions that contact the cushioning portion are electrodeless regions, which prevents the risk of frequency fluctuations caused by any electrode being chipped off by contact with the cushioning portion.