Abstract
The paper presents research related to the functional features of a novel three-layer circular piezoelectric actuator/sensor. The outer layers of the transducer are made of non-piezoelectric material. The middle layer comprises two elements—a piezoelectric disk, and a ring made of non-piezoelectric material. The additional external passive layer has a very important function; it protects the transducer’s electrical components against damage caused by external factors. Also, if sparking on the transducer wires or electrodes occurs, this layer prevents fire. So far, there is no analytical model for such a transducer. Closed-form analytical equations are important tools for predicting and optimizing the operation of devices. Thus, using both the Plate Theory and constitutive equations of piezoelectric materials, an analytical formula describing transducer deflection as a function of electrical loads has been found (electromechanical characteristic of the transducer). In addition, it is worth noting that under certain assumptions, the developed analytical model can also be used for two-layer transducers. The tests carried out show satisfactory compliance of the results obtained through the developed solution with both literature data and numerical data. Moreover, based on the obtained analytical model, the effect of selected non-dimensional variables on the actuator performance has been examined. These parameters include dimensions and mechanical properties of both piezoelectric disk and passive plates and strongly influence the behavior of the transducer.
Highlights
The first practical application of the piezoelectric phenomenon is attributed to Paul Langevin.In 1917, he developed the piezoelectric ultrasonic generator which was used to locate submarines.His invention started the increasingly frequent use of devices using the piezoelectric effect in many areas of the economy, such as medicine, industry, or transport
The middle layer consists of two components—a piezoelectric disk and a ring made of non-piezoelectric material
A novel piezoelectric transducer is presented in this work, for which a new analytical model describing its coupled mechanical and electrical properties has been developed
Summary
In 1917, he developed the piezoelectric ultrasonic generator which was used to locate submarines His invention started the increasingly frequent use of devices using the piezoelectric effect in many areas of the economy, such as medicine, industry, or transport. The relationship between the deformation of piezoelectric materials and an electric field is determined by the constitutive equations [6,7] These equations form the basis for determining the electromechanical characteristics of piezoelectric actuators/sensors. On this basis, it is possible to predict transducer behavior and optimize its parameters. It is possible to predict transducer behavior and optimize its parameters Such knowledge is very useful, because one can increase the converter efficiency at its design process. Many scientists, trying to provide more sophisticated design methods, Sensors 2020, 20, 222; doi:10.3390/s20010222 www.mdpi.com/journal/sensors
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