Regarding a bimorph's structure

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Discussion Overview

The discussion centers around the structural composition of a bimorph actuator, specifically the role of the metal layer situated between two piezoelectric layers. Participants explore its function in terms of electrical connections and mechanical properties.

Discussion Character

  • Technical explanation
  • Exploratory

Main Points Raised

  • Some participants propose that the metal layer provides a common electrical connection to the far end of the bimorph cantilever.
  • Others express uncertainty about this function, suggesting it is an educated guess based on the need for multiple electrical connections to control the piezo elements independently.
  • A later reply discusses the mechanical advantages of the metal shim, noting that it adds strength and stiffness while also shunting some force.
  • One participant references external material that explains the wiring requirements for parallel operation of the bimorph layers, highlighting the need for three connections.

Areas of Agreement / Disagreement

Participants express differing levels of certainty regarding the role of the metal layer, with some proposing its function while others remain unsure. The discussion does not reach a consensus on the exact reasons for the metal's inclusion.

Contextual Notes

Participants acknowledge the complexity of the topic, with some assumptions about electrical connections and mechanical behavior remaining unverified. The discussion includes references to external resources for further clarification.

PhyIsOhSoHard
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Can anyone explain to me why a bimorph has a metal in between the two piezo-layers?
 
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Maybe it provides the common electrical connection to the far end of the bimorph cantilever.
 
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Baluncore said:
Maybe it provides the common electrical connection to the far end of the bimorph cantilever.

Are you sure? I've tried searching for it many places but I just can't find anything about it.
 
PhyIsOhSoHard said:
Are you sure? I've tried searching for it many places but I just can't find anything about it.
No, I'm not sure which is why I say maybe.
It is an educated guess in that to control the two piezo elements independently will require a minimum of three electrical connections.
One of those terminals will be common to both piezo elements and so must reach to the far end of the device.
The metal will be repeatably stretched and contracted as the structure walks. Being on the neutral axis will minimise the metal length change.
 
See; www.piezo.com/tech2intropiezotrans.html
Piezo Systems said:
Parallel Operation: Parallel operation refers to the case where the supply voltage is applied to each layer individually. This means accessing and attaching wires to each layer. A 2-layer bending element wired for parallel operation requires three wires (one attached to each outside electrode and one attached to the center shim), as shown in Figure-18. For the same motion, a 2-layer element poled for parallel operation needs only half the voltage required for series operation.

There are also fabrication and structural advantages.
Piezo Systems said:
The metal shim sandwiched between the two piezo layers provides mechanical strength and stiffness while shunting a small portion of the force.
Piezo Systems said:
The brass shim reinforcement laminated between the two piezoelectric layers is an economical approach to producing a rugged actuator.
 

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