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Piezo Drivers

A piezo driver is a device designed to manage the movement of piezo positioning systems, which utilize piezoelectric materials to achieve precise motion control. These controllers are crucial in various applications, including laser communication, image stabilization, adaptive optics and medical devices, where high accuracy and rapid response are essential. Piezo controllers come in both open and closed-loop configurations, allowing for flexibility in performance based on specific requirements. By enabling fine adjustments and maintaining stability, piezo controllers play a vital role in enhancing the functionality of advanced technological systems.

There are various challenges when it comes to design a piezo driver. First of all, piezoelectric actuators are capacitive components. They need to be charged and discharged at high frequencies during operation. Providing enough current to the actuators requires sophisticated power electronics. Heat dissipation should also be handled to prevent overheating the electronics. This is especially crucial for devices that operates at outdoor environments.

The another challenge to overcome is compensating for hysteresis, creep. Hysteresis in piezoelectric materials occurs due to their ferroelectric nature. When an electric field is applied, the material's strain (displacement) doesn't follow the same path when the field is reversed. This results in a lag between the input voltage and the actual displacement, forming a loop-like curve when plotted. This effect can lead to inaccuracies in positioning and motion control. Creep is the phenomenon where the piezoelectric material continues to expand or contract even after the applied voltage has stopped changing. This happens because the dipoles within the material take time to reorient and reach a steady state. In an open-loop system, creep can cause several percent of displacement over time, affecting precision.

In order to compensate hysteresis and creep, one can use a closed-loop control system. But that comes with its own challenges like sensor noise. Ulsis develops low noise closed loop piezo controllers with strain gauge sensor input. You can check our controllers to find one that fits your application. If you have other requirements, feel free to contact us to discuss about your project and new design options.

CBU-150V1A

Piezo Controller up to 1A

CBU-150V1A is a compact controller box that squeezes controller, sensor and drive electronics into one small volume.

2 channel closed-loop up to 1 A

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CBU-150V2A

Piezo Controller up to 2A

CBU-150V2A is a good choice for your application if you need more current to feed your piezoactuators.

2 channel closed-loop up to 2 A

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CBU150V2A
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