Analog memory devices employing PE-FE interactions for adaptive control voltage modules

Abstract

Adaptive ferroelectric devices utilizing piezoelectric (PE)-ferroelectric (FE) interactions are reviewed. These devices are typically composed of two ceramic FE capacitors mechanically bonded together. When an input voltage is applied to one capacitor, it vibrates due to its PE properties. The vibrations are coupled to the output capacitor where a PE voltage is developed. Because of the PE-FE interaction the PE coefficients of the capacitors depend on their state of FE polarization. Thus, the output voltage of the device can be 'set' to different values by the application of a polarizing voltage adapt pulse to either of its capacitors.Electronic control systems requiring analog memory for 'setting' a variable or function to a desired level have generally been limited to ones employing mechanical memory devices. Solid-state systems are possible using adaptive devices. One such system is described which supplies a 'settable' control voltage in the range 0 to +10 Vdc that can be remembered accurately for per...