Publications

Abstract not provided.

A soft-landing actuation waveform was designed to reduce the bounce of a single-pole single-throw (SPST) ohmic radio frequency (RF) microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) switch during actuation. The waveform consisted of an actuation voltage pulse, a coast time, and a hold voltage. The actuation voltage pulse had a short duration relative to the transition time of the switch and imparted the kinetic energy necessary to close the switch. After the actuation pulse was stopped, damping and restoring forces slowed the switch to near-zero velocity as it approached the closed position. This is referred to as the coast time. The hold voltage was applied upon reaching closure to keep the switch from opening. An ideal waveform would close the switch with near zero impact velocity. The switch dynamics resulting from an ideal waveform were modeled using finite element methods and measured using laser Doppler vibrometry. The ideal waveform closed the switch with an impact velocity of less than 3 cm/s without rebound. Variations in the soft-landing waveform closed the switch with impact velocities of 12.5 cm/s with rebound amplitudes ranging from 75 to 150 nm compared to impact velocities of 22.5 cm/s and rebound amplitudes of 150 to 200 nm for a step waveform. The ideal waveform closed the switch faster than a simple step voltage actuation because there was no rebound and it reduced the impact force imparted on the contacting surfaces upon closure. © 2006 IEEE.

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This paper outlines a model for a corner-supported, thin, rectangular bimorph actuated by a two-dimensional array of segmented, orthotropic PVDF laminates; it investigates the realization and measurement of such a bimorph. First, a model is derived to determine the deflected shape of an orthotropic laminate for a given distribution of voltages over the actuator array. Then, boundary conditions are realized in a laboratory setup to approach the theoretical corner-supported boundary condition. Finally, deflection measurements of actuated orthotropic PVDF laminates are performed with Electronic Speckle Pattern Interferometry and are compared to the model results. Copyright © 2005 by ASME.

Abstract not provided.

The shape control of thin, flexible structures has been studied primarily for edge-supported thin plates. For applications involving reconfigurable apertures such as membrane optics and active RF surfaces, corner-supported configurations may prove more applicable. Corner-supported adaptive structures allow for parabolic geometries, greater flexibility, and larger achievable deflections when compared to edge-supported geometries under similar actuation conditions. Preliminary models have been developed for corner-supported thin plates actuated by isotropic piezoelectric actuators. However, typical piezoelectric materials are known to be orthotropic. This paper extends a previously-developed isotropic model for a corner-supported, thin, rectangular bimorph to a more general orthotropic model for a bimorph actuated by a two-dimensional array of segmented PVDF laminates. First, a model determining the deflected shape of an orthotropic laminate for a given distribution of voltages over the actuator array is derived. Second, symmetric actuation of a bimorph consisting of orthotropic material is simulated using orthogonally-oriented laminae. Finally, the results of the model are shown to agree well with layered-shell finite element simulations for simple and complex voltage distributions.

This report summarizes research into effects of electron gun control on piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) structures. The experimental apparatus specific to the electron gun control of this structure is detailed, and the equipment developed for the remote examination of the bimorph surface profile is outlined. Experiments conducted to determine the optimum electron beam characteristics for control are summarized. Clearer boundaries on the bimorphs control output capabilities were determined, as was the closed loop response. Further controllability analysis of the bimorph is outlined, and the results are examined. In this research, the bimorph response was tested through a matrix of control inputs of varying current, frequency, and amplitude. Experiments also studied the response to electron gun actuation of piezoelectric bimorph thin film covered with multiple spatial regions of control. Parameter ranges that yielded predictable control under certain circumstances were determined. Research has shown that electron gun control can be used to make macrocontrol and nanocontrol adjustments for PVDF structures. The control response and hysteresis are more linear for a small range of energy levels. Current levels needed for optimum control are established, and the generalized controllability of a PVDF bimorph structure is shown.

This paper describes an array of in-plane piezoelectric actuator segments laminated onto a comer-supported substrate to create a thin bimorph for reflector applications. An electric field distribution over the actuator segments causes the segments to expand or contract, thereby effecting plate deflection. To achieve a desired bimorph shape, the shape is first expressed as a two-dimensional series expansion. Then, using coefficients from the series expansion, an inverse problem is solved that determines the electric field distribution realizing the desired plate shape. A static example is presented where the desired deflection shape is a paraboloid. Copyright © 2004 by ASME.