Optimization of a piezoelectric ceramic actuator

In this paper, the dynamic model of the prototyped piezoelectric ceramic (PZT) linear actuator is established and optimized to obtain optimal performance. The PZT linear actuator construction is a cylindrical block with two cylindrical brass blocks attached to each side via PZT plates in between. Previous experimental and analytical studies on the prototyped PZT actuator concluded that velocity of the actuator had to be increased. Also, for practical applications, low voltages (applied across the PZT plates) were included as a criterion in the design scheme. The Sequential Quadratic Programming (SQP) method was employed in the optimization process. Optimization of the 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 of friction. Various waveforms of driving voltage were explored in an attempt to make the actuator move faster. (C) 2000 Elsevier Science S.A. All rights reserved.