Knowledge Hub

Basics of Piezotechnology

Piezo actuators are unique in terms of dynamics, force and precision. They are the ideal solution for the construction of unique scientific instruments and high-precision positioning systems for optics and machines...

Constitutive Equations of Piezoelectricity

In the linear theory of the piezoelectric effect, a description of the small-signal behavior was developed (for further information see * 1 * 2). This theory does not include...

Expansion and Force generation of Piezo Stacks

The real piezo actuator deviates significantly from a linear behavior in large-signal operation and the expansion shows a pronounced hysteresis behavior. There...

Electrical Behavior of Piezo Actuators

Piezoelectric actuators exhibit electrical behavior similar to capacitors. This behavior is overlaid with the piezoelectric effect, which couples mechanical and electrical...

Design Principles of Linear Piezo Actuators

There are two fundamental designs of piezoelectric actuators: I) Direct actuation with stacks. The most advancedadvanced type of piezo stacks is the...

Guidelines for Sizing a Piezo Actuator

The feasibility of a planned application can be roughly assessed by comparing the application requirements with the characteristics of piezo stacks...

Main Load Cases for Piezo Actuators

The linear constitutive equation of piezoelectricity describes a mechanically linear-elastic material with the superimposed effect of an electrically induced...

Installation and Handling of Piezo Stacks

Piezo stack actuators are designed for uniaxial loading. A preload mechanism is often essential to achieve the best performance and a long service...

Smart Structures & Materials

This class of materials allows for the straightforward implementation of functions within load-bearing mechanical structures. While in artifacts such as machines or...