Optimization of a piezoelectric ceramic actuator

In this paper, the dynamic model of the prototyped piezoelectric ceramic (P ZT) linear actuator is established and optimized to obtain optimal performa nce. The PZT linear actuator construction is a cylindrical block with two c ylindrical brass blocks attached to each side via PZT plates in between. Pr evious experimental and analytical studies on the prototyped PZT actuator c oncluded that velocity of the actuator had to be increased. Also, for pract ical applications, low voltages (applied across the PZT plates) were includ ed as a criterion in the design scheme. The Sequential Quadratic Programmin g (SQP) method was employed in the optimization process. Optimization of th e velocity was performed in detail, with important design parameters being the driving voltages and system parameters such as the masses of the metal blocks constructing the system, linear parameters of PZT, and coefficient o f friction. Various waveforms of driving voltage were explored in an attemp t to make the actuator move faster. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All righ ts reserved.