Session
Session VIII: Advanced Technologies & Subsystems, Components & Sensors II
Abstract
Piezo-electric motors have been successfully developed for various applications like autofocus drives in camera lenses and handling equipment for semiconductor production. Their high speed and accurate positioning capability, combined with a favourable holding torque in unpowered condition, make piezo motors also very attractive for actuation purposes in spacecraft mechanisms. However, so far only a few studies have been reported considering their suitability for actual use in space. Piezo motors use a combination of piezo-electric and friction forces to generate a progressive motion of an output element. Such output motion can be a linear translation or a rotation in accordance with the actuation requirements of a particular application. Since piezo motors rely on friction at a controlled mechanical contact interface, the related tribology in vacuum and under varying temperature conditions is of critical importance for the function and operational lifetime of such motors. The paper introduces a new concept of a versatile piezo motor driven at ultrasonic frequency, and it elaborates on a number of space-related issues like the compatibility with the relevant mechanical and thermal environment. Furthermore, the possible implementation in different space mechanisms is discussed, with specific focus on miniaturised equipment as needed for small satellites.
The Ultrasonic Piezo Drive an Innovative Solution for High-Accuracy Positioning
Piezo-electric motors have been successfully developed for various applications like autofocus drives in camera lenses and handling equipment for semiconductor production. Their high speed and accurate positioning capability, combined with a favourable holding torque in unpowered condition, make piezo motors also very attractive for actuation purposes in spacecraft mechanisms. However, so far only a few studies have been reported considering their suitability for actual use in space. Piezo motors use a combination of piezo-electric and friction forces to generate a progressive motion of an output element. Such output motion can be a linear translation or a rotation in accordance with the actuation requirements of a particular application. Since piezo motors rely on friction at a controlled mechanical contact interface, the related tribology in vacuum and under varying temperature conditions is of critical importance for the function and operational lifetime of such motors. The paper introduces a new concept of a versatile piezo motor driven at ultrasonic frequency, and it elaborates on a number of space-related issues like the compatibility with the relevant mechanical and thermal environment. Furthermore, the possible implementation in different space mechanisms is discussed, with specific focus on miniaturised equipment as needed for small satellites.
