Piezoelectric benders offer a tip deflection whose direction and magnitude is a function of the bias voltages applied to it. These benders come in different shapes and technologies as per their usage.
Internal structure of a Piezoelectric bender
Any voltage driver that has a voltage limit of a minimum 150 V can be used to operate piezo bender actuators. Electrical connections to 3 electrodes are present on the top surface. Each of these electrodes is an individual wire lead. Electrode which is connected to the red colored lead has to be positively biased.
Features of a Piezoelectric Bender
Piezoelectric bimorph benders come with several features. Some of them are:
- Provides sub-micron Resolution
- Maximum Displacement of ±450 µm
- Has 28 mm of active free length
- Best suited for OEM Applications
What are the areas of application Piezoelectric benders?
Piezoelectric benders find its use in various applications such as electrical switches, wire bonding, valves, beam deflection, and acceleration sensors. These benders are made of multiple, piezoceramic layers, where the voltage bias across the upper half section of the layer is independently controlled. With the increase in the applied voltage to the layers, the length of the layer also increases.
On providing a bias on bottom or top layers, you can operate the bender in one side voltage control mode. Providing varying voltage bias on these layers results in deflection in either direction. It is advised not to apply a voltage bias beyond 150 V in between any two wire leads. This can cause damage to the bender.
Conclusion
Piezoelectric Benders are designed to suit as per the customer needs. You can get them in varying shapes, mounts, wiring, conformal coating and center access. Understanding these design aspects would get you the best one for your needs.