A piezoelectric device is an instrument that leverages the piezoelectric effect, the unique ability of certain materials to generate an electric charge in response to applied mechanical stress. When a voltage is applied, these devices expand and contract due to the inverse piezoelectric effect. This principle is utilized for high-precision positioning, and devices designed for this purpose are commonly known as piezo actuators or piezo stages. High voltage is used because the higher the voltage applied to the piezo element, the larger the deformation. In static or DC applications, piezoelectric elements act as capacitors and draw minimal current, thus consuming very little power. For dynamic, high-speed operation, however, significant current is necessary to rapidly charge and discharge the element's inherent capacitance, resulting in higher power consumption. Our high-power, broadband piezo drivers are specifically engineered to handle these large capacitive loads, ensuring high-speed and high-precision operation. Piezoelectric motors driven by high-frequency voltage have also been commercialized.
Conversely, when a mechanical force is applied to a piezoelectric element, causing it to deform, it generates a voltage. This phenomenon is known as the direct piezoelectric effect, and this principle is utilized in piezoelectric sensors.
- Related Terms:
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- Piezoelectric sensor
- Piezo Actuators
- Piezo Driver
- Piezo Transducers
