Piezomotors are a form of electromechanical interface device that have unique properties with regard to response capability and proportionate control. They employ ferroelectric materials that undergo a lattice distortion when subjected to an electric field. This paper gives a brief review of material properties desirable for this type of high-strain actuator and explains why these properties are important. It describes a material developed by the authors’ company and shows the extent to which this material satisfies requirements. The significant factors in coupling energy from a Piezomotor are examined, and methods for addressing them are described.
Current state of the art is quantified in a design guide diagram that permits the performance of any size of Piezomotor to be predicted under various electric field energizations.
A selection of applications in automotive fuel systems, pumps, valves, industrial hydraulics, and optical systems is presented. The performance advantages and operating requirements of such systems are described.
Reference is made to future extensions of performance. It is shown that there is a potential for energy densities up to twelve times those currently achieved.