Introducing
Python™ Bending Actuators
Originally designed as a piezoelectric artificial muscle for our biomimetic cooling fans, our Python™ piezo bender addresses numerous issues found in conventional piezoelectric actuators, sensors and energy harvesters, giving it superior reliability and efficiency.
The Secret's in the Stack
With Python™ technology the piezo layer is hermetically sandwiched between two durable epoxy resin layers. This sandwich-like structure is carefully engineered to give the piezo layer significant negative pre-stress. The Python™ bending actuator is further conformally coated with two thin silicone rubber layers to protect the piezo layer from humidity and condensation.
Main problems solved with Python™
A superior piezoelectric bending actuator
Cracking
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More than 90% of piezoelectric actuator failures are due to cracks. Micro cracks are often created in the piezoelectric wafer during the manufacturing process already. Under normal operation (deflection) the inertial force experienced by the piezo actuator (particularly when driven by DC and “rectangular” signal pulses) can induce high cyclic stress (tensile/compression) onto the piezo layer. As the layer consists of a brittle, ceramic material the micro cracks begin to grow under this cyclic stress, causing a reduction in performance of the piezo actuator. These cracks eventually propagate throughout the entire wafer, resulting in total failure. Cracks may also be caused by thermal shocks associated with soldering, handling and other mechanical impact.
Dielectric Breakdown
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Most metals used in piezo electrodes (such as Ni or Ag) can migrate along micro cracks and grain boundaries of the piezo material under conditions of high humidity and applied voltage. This electrochemical migration results in dendrite growths and eventually leads to short circuiting within the piezo layer.
Integrated
Features
Greater flexibility in both electrical and mechanical integrations.
Isolated electrical connection
Soldering directly onto the piezo layer can cause cracks and failure due to thermal shock. That is why the Python™ bending actuator comes with thermally isolated solder pads to prevent this risk.
Convenient mechanical integration
Similarly, clamping directly onto the brittle piezo layers may also cause cracks and failures. Therefore the Python™ piezo actuator includes passive extended portions at both ends. These parts can be drilled, machined, and clamped for mechanical integration without any impact on the actual piezo layers.
Perfect for Haptics
Thanks to its superb reliability, the Python™ haptic actuator can operate at its resonance frequency. This allows it to generate very high accelerations. Its applications include automotive touchscreens, mobile/personal computers, robotics and others.
Different
Form Factors
We are able to customize the form and shape of our piezo actuators for your specific needs, allowing them to fit multiple different applications.
Main Applications
Haptic
Automotive display, game console, control pad
Actuating
Precise position control, micro valve/pump, solenoid
Sensing
Pressure/touch force sensor, sonar equipment, others