SBIR Phase I: Development of a Self-Sensing Piezoelectric Actuator

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This Small Business Innovation Research Phase I project will develop a self-sensing piezoelectric actuator. The piezoelectric actuator will act at the same time as the sensor that will provide information to the actuators and as its own actuator. No separate sensor is needed. The self-sensing piezoelectric actuator uses an unconventional impedance approach for both dynamic (AC) and static (DC) force measurements By using piezoelectric materials, the load sensor will have a much wider dynamic range than those of conventional strain gage sensor. The simplicity in structure and electronic circuitry have made this design inexpensive, when compared to crystal resonator pressure sensors, and feasible for a wide range of applications in both sensing and control industries. During Phase I, a pre-prototype self-sensing and actuating unit will be developed for the proof of concept. A variety of targeted tests will be carried out in this phase to test and examine the accuracy and limitations of the innovation. Commercial applications include machine components; intelligent structures, intelligent self-acting machine components including bearings and seals, high-precision positioning devices, advanced electronic consumers goods, toys.