Abstract: A vibration device that includes an elastic plate having a first elastic plate section, a second elastic plate section opposing the first elastic plate section, and a curvature joining section connecting the first and second elastic plate sections; a piezoelectric vibration element is provided on a surface of the first elastic plate section; and a circuit is provided on the second elastic plate section. A mass addition member is attached to a leading end portion of the first elastic plate section, and the elastic plate is accommodated in a package member.

Abstract: Embodiments of the invention include a self-propelled sensor system. In an embodiment, the self-propelled sensor system includes a piezoelectrically actuated motor that is integrated with a substrate. In an embodiment, the self-propelled sensor system may also include a sensor and an integrated circuit electrically coupled to the piezoelectrically actuated motor. Embodiments of the invention may also include self-propelled sensor systems that include plurality of piezoelectrically actuated motors. In an embodiment the piezoelectrically actuated motors may be one or more different types of motors including, but not limited to, stick and slip motors, inchworm stepping motors, standing acoustic wave motors, a plurality of piezoelectrically actuated cantilevers, and a piezoelectrically actuated diaphragm. Additional embodiments of the invention may include a plurality of self-propelled sensor systems that are communicatively coupled to form a sensor mesh.

Abstract: A method for forming a semiconductor device structure is provided. The method includes receiving a first wafer having multiple predetermined die areas. The method also includes forming a recess in the first wafer, and the recess extends in a direction substantially parallel to an edge of one of the predetermined die areas. The method further includes receiving a second wafer. In addition, the method includes bonding the first wafer and the second wafer at an elevated temperature after the recess is formed.

Abstract: A machine that is capable of assembling a copy of itself from a feedstock of parts is described. The machine operates on a lattice or grid on which it is able to move and from which it receives power and control signals. The machine (assembler) is composed of modules that each perform some functionality. In the simplest case, only three module types are needed: a linear step module, a gripper, and an anchor. The linear step module is capable of moving from one lattice location to the next, the gripper module is capable of gripping other modules, and the anchor module is capable of attaching the machine to the grid. With these three primitives it is possible for this simple machine to move on the grid using inchworm-like motions, pick up other modules, and assemble a copy of itself.

Abstract: A downsizable electronic apparatus is provided. A supporting unit supports a driven body and has a shaft portion, and a rotation plate which is arranged coaxially with and perpendicular to the shaft portion and has a sliding surface with the shaft portion at its center and a scale arranged coaxially with the slicing surface and at an outer peripheral side in the rotation plate. A base unit, on which the supporting unit is provided in a standing manner, has a control substrate, an actuator drives the supporting unit and is arranged so as to be brought into pressure contact with the sliding surface, and a position detecting unit detects a rotational position of the supporting unit and reads the scale, and rotatably supports the supporting unit. Wiring drawn from the driven body is inserted into a wiring region and connected to the control substrate.

Abstract: An insole with heat generating system is disclosed, which comprises an insole, a piezoelectric module disposed inside the insole and electrically connected with each other to form an electrical circuit, two flexible conductive strips having a first conductive copper piece and a second conductive copper piece disposed thereon, and at least one resistive heating chip. Wherein the piezoelectric module generates the electrical energy through stepping on the insole, and then turns into the heat energy through the resistive heating chip, thereby generating a temperature for the insole, so the insole with heat generating system can adjust the temperature appropriately, its safety is high, most importantly, the invention does not need to add the battery to generate heat.

Abstract: An acoustic wave resonator includes: a first piezoelectric portion of a piezoelectric layer, disposed on a cavity and having a first average thickness; and a second piezoelectric portion of the piezoelectric layer, disposed adjacent to an edge of the first piezoelectric portion and having a second average thickness that is different from the first average thickness.

Abstract: In an elastic wave device, a piezoelectric substrate is stacked on a support substrate and an IDT electrode is provided on the piezoelectric substrate. Wiring line portions are provided on the piezoelectric substrate. A first hollow portion is provided in the support substrate at least below at least one of the wiring line portions and or below a region between the wiring line portions.

Abstract: A speaker includes a diaphragm and a MEMS actuator. The MEMS actuator includes a coupling member attached to the diaphragm and at least one closed cantilever ring that is surrounded around and connected to the coupling member by plural first bridge members, wherein the closed cantilever ring is configured to be electrically-biased to cause an axial movement of the coupling member and the diaphragm.

Abstract: In a controller of the present invention that controls a drive mechanism driven by a plurality of motors, when a state where the output of the motors is zero shifts to a state where the output is non-zero such that a preload torque is provided by a preload torque superimposition unit, at least one of the motors forms a contact portion between the drive mechanism and the motor by speed control based on a speed detection value detected in a speed detection unit, and in a state where the contact portion is formed, the preload torque is provided by the preload torque superimposition unit.

Abstract: Disclosed is a focused ultrasonic piezoelectric actuator having a novel type of piezoelectric device for focusing ultrasonic waves. The focused ultrasonic piezoelectric actuator includes a dome-shaped piezoelectric body for focusing ultrasonic waves and a rim configured to facilitate focusing of ultrasonic waves of the body and injection of the dome-shaped piezoelectric body during a powder injection molding process, remove warpage of the dome-shaped body during a sintering process, and reinforce focusing intensity of the ultrasonic waves. The rim is integrally formed with the body. Accordingly, in the focused ultrasonic piezoelectric actuator, a dome-shaped focused ultrasonic piezoelectric actuator for focusing ultrasonic waves using a thickness vibration mode at a MHz frequency band is easily manufactured by a powder injection molding method, and thus an ultrasonic focusing effect is maximized.

Abstract: The invention relates to an actuator system comprising at least four electrically controllable, longitudinally adjustable actuators, to each of which a compressive force is applied in the direction of the longitudinal adjustment thereof by means of a separate housing that has an integrally formed resilient portion, each housing being designed as a single piece along with a base element shared by all housings. The invention further relates to an array comprising a plurality of actuator systems of said type.

Abstract: Sample stage, e.g. for use in a scanning electron microscope. The sample stage includes a base, a sample carrier, and an actuator assembly arranged for moving the sample carrier in at least one direction substantially parallel to the base. The actuator assembly is arranged so as not to contribute to the mechanical stiffness of the sample stage from the sample carrier to the base.

Abstract: A system and method use an array of ultrasonic transducers to emit and receive sound in a phased array fashion by using acoustic waveguides to achieve a desired acoustic radiation and reception pattern. A chip package attached to an acoustic transducer array includes acoustic waveguides coupled to acoustic ports. Each waveguide is coupled between a corresponding acoustic transducer and a corresponding acoustic port. A spacing of a pair of acoustic ports is different than a spacing of a corresponding pair of acoustic transducers.

Abstract: A composite body of the present invention includes a base and an oxide layer arranged on the base, the oxide layer containing more than 45% by volume of a perovskite-type oxide phase. The composite body may include a first member, a second member, and a joining portion that joins the first member and the second member, at least one of the first member and the second member serving as the base, and the joining portion serving as the oxide layer. The composite body may include the base and a covering portion that covers the whole or part of a surface of the base, the covering portion being formed of the oxide layer.

Abstract: The present invention relates to method and device invention made in SS316LN for tuning single-cell or multi-cell SCRF cavity for precise slow and fast tuning with low hysteresis. The tuning mechanism (device) for SCRF cavity consists of two thick square flanges connected to each other through two parallel sets of X-link levers pivoted in between such that the motion of top end of flange and bottom end of flange equalizes; wherein the top end of X-link connects one square flange to the bottom end of the other square flange and vice-versa using thin flat flexure plates; wherein the flexure plates are joined on X-link and square flange by bolts having spring locks; the square flanges have platform on the top that transfer motion and these are connected through power screw mechanism; wherein the power screw for linear actuation is rotated using worm-wheel.

Abstract: A camera device is packaged inside an external shell of an electronic apparatus. The external shell has an opening. The camera device has a transparent plate, a part of which is adjacent to the opening of the external shell. The transparent plate forms an accommodating space for accommodating other components of the camera device. Thus, the dust can be prevented from falling into a shutter blade room of the camera device. The camera device also includes a shutter blade, a driver, and a plate. The plate has an aperture, and the aperture of the camera device is defined thereby. The aperture of the plate is completely pervious to light when the shutter blade is at a first position, and the aperture of the plate is partially pervious to light when the shutter blade is at a second position, thereby changing the aperture of the camera device.

Abstract: A MEMS switch includes a first signal line provided in a first beam, a first GND adjacent to the first signal line, a second signal line provided in a second beam, and a second GND adjacent to the second signal line. A contact terminal is fixed to any one of the first signal line and the second signal line and performs connection between the first signal line and the second signal line according to deformation of the first beam.

Abstract: The invention relates to a ceramic material, comprising lead zirconate titanate, which additionally contains K and optionally Cu. The ceramic material can be used in an electroceramic component, for example a piezoelectric actuator. The invention also relates to methods for producing the ceramic material and the electronic component.

Abstract: Disclosed is a stick-slip drive comprising a base and a rotor which are in contact with one another via a friction surface and are coupled to one another in such a way that the rotor can perform an inertial motion relative to the base, characterized in that two materials, a noble metal and a ceramic material, are paired up on the friction surface between the base and the rotor.

Abstract: A sprayer that senses the presence or character of a surface to be sprayed includes one or more sensors configured to detect a presence or character of a surface to be sprayed; and a dispenser assembly including one or more components configured to modify at least one spray characteristic of a formulation based on an input from at least one of the one or more sensors indicative of the presence or character of the surface to be sprayed.

Abstract: The invention is directed at a positioning arm for positioning of a scan head of a surface scanning measurement device—such as a scanning probe microscopy device—relative to a surface. The positioning arm comprises a base at a first end thereof for mounting the arm with the base to a static reference structure. The positioning arm further comprises a first and a second arm member extending from the base, the second arm member extending parallel to the first arm member. The arm comprises a bridge member at a second end thereof, connecting the first and the second arm members. The first and the second arm member are respectively connected to each one of said base and said bridge member by means of a hingeable connection.

Abstract: An array speaker device (1A) includes a vibrator (20) arranged on one face of a substrate having a uniform thickness, the vibrator being formed of a base material layer (11), a first electrode layer (12), a piezoelectric element layer (13), and a second electrode layer (14), each of which has a uniform thickness, and which are layered in the order mentioned on the substrate. A hole through which a sound wave is outputted in the thickness direction of the substrate is provided on the substrate at a position corresponding to the vibrator (20), the sound wave being generated by vibration of the vibrator (20) to which a voltage signal is applied via the first electrode layer (12) and the second electrode layer (14). Scallops (S) made of an indentation and a projection alternating in the thickness direction of the substrate are formed on the inner circumferential wall of the hole.

Abstract: A micromechanical device with electrostatically caused deflection by a plate capacitor extending along and spaced apart from the neutral fiber of the deflectable element is improved with regard to its manufacturing complexity and/or with regard to its operating characteristics, such as, for example, maximum voltage applicable or deflectability, by using a continuous insulation layer between the distal and proximal electrodes of the plate capacitor, or else the proximal electrode is structured so as to have gaps at the segment boundaries where the distal electrode is mechanically fixed so as to be laterally spaced apart from the distal electrode. Both procedures avoid the problems of generating a roughness of the surface of the proximal electrode facing the distal electrode, as would otherwise be necessitated by etching an insulation layer for providing spacers between the distal and proximal electrodes at the segment boundaries.

Abstract: A microelectromechanical system (MEMS) resonator includes a substrate having a substantially planar surface and a resonant member having sidewalls disposed in a nominally perpendicular orientation with respect to the planar surface. Impurity dopant is introduced via the sidewalls of the resonant member such that a non-uniform dopant concentration profile is established along axis extending between the sidewalls parallel to the substrate surface and exhibits a relative minimum concentration in a middle region of the axis.

Abstract: A movable body portion Sm is configured to reciprocate in a rotation angle range Zm between a first position Xa and a second position Xb according to energization control of a driving coil 6 and to be stopped at the first position Xa and the second position Xb by a pair of self-holding mechanisms 11a and 11b by restriction of a pair of restricting stopper mechanisms 10a and 10b and attraction of magnets 8a and 8b. when controlling switching from the second position Xb (or the first position Xa) to the first position Xa (or the second position Xb), after a driving voltage based on a driving pulse Ps is applied to the driving coil 6, if the movable body portion Sm has reached a predetermined intermediate position Xp in 10 to 50[%] of the rotation angle range Zm, control is performed so that application of the driving voltage is stopped.

Abstract: A tabular structure having flexibility extends from a root end portion to a distal end portion along a reference axis. The root end portion is fixed to a pedestal. Three sectioned parts are provided in the tabular structure. Weights are joined to the lower surfaces of the respective three sectioned parts. The three sectioned parts respectively have different thicknesses. As a result, spring constants are different. When vibration energy from the outside is applied to the pedestal, the weights vibrate and a bend occurs in the tabular structure. If a charge generating element such as a piezoelectric element is stuck to the tabular structure, an electric charge is generated by bending stress. A frequency band capable of generating electric power is expanded by providing a plurality of weights in the tabular structure in which the spring constants are different in each of the sectioned parts.

Abstract: An energy harvester having a plurality of bimorph beams and a plurality of piezoelectric devices, wherein at least two of the piezoelectric devices are mounted to each of the plurality of bimorph beams. A plurality of rigid beams interconnect adjacent ends of the bimorph beams to define a stacked, fan-folded shape having a first end of one of the bimorph beams mounted to a structure. A tip mass is disposed on a free end of another of the plurality of bimorph beams. Upon movement of the energy harvester, the plurality of bimorph beams is caused to deflect and thereby output electrical power from the plurality of piezoelectric devices.

Abstract: A system for simulating materials using touch surfaces includes a touch surface, an actuator and/or an temperature control device, and a control unit. The control unit controls the actuator or the temperature control device to cause at least a portion of the touch surface to simulate a material. Such control may include utilizing the actuator to vibrate the surface to simulate the tactile sensation of texture. Such control may also include utilizing the temperature control device (such as a Peltier device) to control the temperature of the surface in order to simulate the thermal conductivity of a material. In some cases, the temperature control may be performed utilizing a temperature sensor to adjust the temperature of the surface. In various cases, the vibration and/or temperature may be varied over time, such as in response to one or more touches detected using one or more touch sensors.

Abstract: An acoustic resonator comprises a first electrode and second electrode comprising a plurality of sides. At least one of the sides of the second electrode comprises a cantilevered portion. A piezoelectric layer is disposed between the first and second electrodes. A bridge disposed adjacent to one of the sides of the second electrode.

Abstract: A piezoelectric actuator includes a piezoelectric element, a connection member of a shaft or weight connected to an element end surface of the piezoelectric element, the other one of the shaft and weight connected to a first end surface constituting an end surface opposing to the element end surface of the piezoelectric element, a wiring portion, and a resin portion. The piezoelectric element forms external electrodes on surfaces thereof, alternately laminates internal electrode layers with piezoelectric layers therebetween, and provides part of the external electrodes on the element end surface. The wiring portion has conductive portions corresponding to the external electrodes. The resin portion fixes the piezoelectric element, the connection member, and the wiring portion so that the element end surface opposes to the connection member with the wiring portion therebetween and that the conductive portions are electrically connected to the external electrodes.

Abstract: An ultrasonic vibrator and an ultrasonic treatment device which can adjust a resonant frequency while maintaining driving force are provided. An ultrasonic vibrator 1 includes two metal blocks 2, a driving unit 3 that is arranged between the metal blocks 2 and produces a piezoelectric effect to vibrate by application of an alternating voltage, and at least one adjustment unit 4 that is arranged between the metal blocks 2 and the driving unit 3 in an insulated state and changes Young's modulus.

Abstract: A dielectric elastomer motor includes an artificial muscle and a conversion mechanism cooperating with the artificial muscle. The artificial muscle includes a dielectric elastomer film or layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. First and second electrodes are attached to the first surface and the second surface of the dielectric elastomer film, respectively. First and second bases are attached to the dielectric elastomer so as to be spaced apart from each other. The first base and the second base are capable of reciprocation relative to each other upon change in size of the dielectric elastomer. The conversion mechanism converts the reciprocation of the bases to pivotal or rotational movement. The dielectric elastomer receives voltage application with a predetermined timing via the first and the second electrodes.

Abstract: An optical deflection apparatus, an image projector, an optical writing unit, and an object recognition device. The optical deflection apparatus includes a mirror unit having a reflection plane, a plurality of actuators to move the mirror unit around a prescribed axis, a drive controller to control operation of the plurality of actuators, and an abnormality detector to detect an abnormality in at least one of the plurality of actuators. When the abnormality detector detects an abnormality in at least one of the plurality of actuators, the drive controller controls another one of the plurality of actuators to deflect a light flux incident on the mirror unit. The image projector includes the optical deflection apparatus, and a light source unit to emit a laser beam. The optical deflection apparatus projects an image formed by optically scanning the laser beam emitted from the light source unit.

Abstract: Systems, methods, and computer-readable media are disclosed for distorting a display coupled to a user device to bring the display into alignment with a gaze direction of a user of the user device. In certain scenarios, a user's gaze direction may not be aligned with a display of the user device. In such example scenarios, a user device determines a gaze direction of a user using, for example, camera means. When an event occurs, the user device determines one or more distortion elements to activate based at least in part on the gaze direction of the user. The user device then activates the distortion element(s) to cause the display of the device to distort to a position in which it is aligned with the gaze direction of the user. The distortion element(s) may be formed of an electroactive polymer configured to deform upon application of an electric field.

Abstract: One embodiment is an untethered, handheld, kinesthetic, haptic device that produces torque using gyroscopic precession to eliminate the need for a grounded surface. In particular, one embodiment is a haptic device that includes: (a) an angular momentum generator apparatus; and (b) a torque generator apparatus coupled to the angular momentum generator apparatus; wherein: (i) the angular momentum generator apparatus is capable of generating a predetermined angular momentum; and (ii) the torque generator apparatus is capable of applying a torque to cause the angular momentum generator apparatus to rotate about a direction perpendicular to the direction of the angular momentum.

Abstract: A pen configured for use with a touch sensor includes a pen tip that is configured to make contact with the touch sensor. The pen body includes an electrically conductive receiver portion and an electrically conductive emitter portion that is electrically insulated and electrostatically shielded from the receiver portion. The pen includes circuitry configured to receive a touch sensor drive signal applied to a drive electrode of the touch sensor through the receiver portion of the pen body. In response to the received signal, the pen circuitry generates a pen drive signal that is phase additive with the touch sensor drive signal and emits the pen drive signal through the emitter portion of the pen body.

Abstract: A microactuator for a dual stage actuated suspension for a hard disk drive is constructed as a longitudinal stack of piezoelectric (PZT) elements acting in the d33 mode, expanding or contracting longitudinally when an electric field is applied across them in the longitudinal direction. The microactuator has interlaced electrode fingers that separate and define the individual PZT elements, and apply the electric field. A stiff constraint layer having a high Young's modulus is affixed to the microactuator on the side opposite the suspension to which the microactuator is bonded. The constraint layer may be a layer of substantially inactive PZT material that is formed integrally with the PZT elements but without electrodes in the inactive PZT layer. The presence of the stiff constraint layer increases the effective stroke length of the microactuator.

Abstract: An apparatus includes a substrate and a matrix having multiple cells embedded within the substrate. The matrix is configured to generate electrostatic fields to define at least one flow path for liquid metal. The apparatus also includes a pump configured to create movement of the liquid metal through the at least one flow path defined by the matrix. The matrix is configured to transport the liquid metal through the at least one flow path in order to remove thermal energy from one or more areas of the substrate. The matrix could include a matrix of capacitors, and polarities of charges stored on the capacitors could define which cells allow passage of the liquid metal and which cells block or restrict passage of the liquid metal. The cells that block or restrict passage of the liquid metal could be configured to increase a viscosity of the liquid metal.

Abstract: A fixed electrode configured to face a diaphragm and forming a capacitance with the diaphragm, including a plurality of protrusions formed by plastic deformation on one surface of the fixed electrode that is to face the diaphragm, so as to protrude toward the diaphragm.

Abstract: A gyro sensor having increased sensitivity is provided, along with an electronic apparatus including the gyro sensor. The gyro sensor includes: a vibrator; a first piezoelectric layer, and a second piezoelectric layer. The first piezoelectric layer, which includes a first electrode pair and a first piezoelectric film arranged between the first electrode pair, is arranged on a front surface of the vibrator and is capable of causing the vibrator to vibrate in a first axis direction vertical to the front surface. The second piezoelectric layer, which includes a second electrode pair and a second piezoelectric film arranged between the second electrode pair, is arranged on the first piezoelectric layer and is capable of causing the vibrator to vibrate in the first axis direction. The second piezoelectric layer functions synchronously with the first piezoelectric layer to cause the vibrator to vibrate in the first axis direction.

Abstract: The present invention relates to a piezoelectric driving device 10 capable of moving the movable member 14 along the axis direction engaged in a movable manner to the axial direction with respect to the shaft 16. A pair of the external electrodes 26 and 27 respectively comprises the first external connection part 26a and the second external connection part 27a formed at the lower end face in Z axis direction by being insulated against each other. At the opposing face of the weight member 30 facing against the lower end face of the element 20, the first circuit pattern 36 and the second circuit pattern 37 are formed by being insulated against each other; and the first circuit pattern 36 and the second circuit pattern 37 are respectively connected to the first external connection part 26 and the second external connection part 27 by a metal bonding.

Abstract: A nanogenerator with at least one nanostructure and method of manufacturing the same are provided. The method of manufacturing the nanogenerator includes forming at least one nanostructure including an organic piezoelectric material on a substrate.

Abstract: The technical solution relates to devices for pumping fluid media and can be used in industry, transport and the home for pumping liquids and other incompressible and compressible fluid media as well as for extracting oil from wells. The pump assembly with an electric drive consists of a housing, an electric drive armature situated inside the housing, and a displacer situated in the fore end of the housing, wherein the electric drive armature and the displacer are connected to one another. The displacer is in the form of a piston. The electric drive armature consists of the following, connected in series: an electric drive rear spacing block, an electric drive motion block capable of moving relative to the housing in the direction of a change in the length of the motion block, and an electric drive fore spacing block.

Abstract: An ultrasonic sensor includes: when two orthogonal axes are referred to as an X axis and a Y axis and a plane formed by the X axis and the Y axis is referred to as an XY plane, a substrate disposed across the XY plane; a plurality of spaces formed in the substrate in at least one direction of an X-axis direction and a Y-axis direction; a vibrating plate that is provided on the substrate such that the spaces are closed and that has a first surface on the substrate side and a second surface facing the first surface; and a piezoelectric element that is provided at a portion on the second surface side of the vibrating plate that corresponds to the space, and that transmits/receives an ultrasonic wave. At least some of the spaces are arranged to form a zigzag shape.

Abstract: A control device of a variable stiffness mechanism controls a total stiffness by variably outputting a voltage from a DC power source 10 to an “m” number of stiffness control elastomers 1 among a plurality of dielectric elastomers 1 of a variable stiffness mechanism 100. Further, in a state in which a square-wave signal is being output from a square-wave power source 11 to an “n” number of electrostatic capacitance estimation elastomers 1, a detection value of energizing current is acquired and the acquired detection value is used to estimate an electrostatic capacitance.

Abstract: A system and method for recognizing a signet and for performing an action associated with the signet, wherein the signet is an inanimate object. In one embodiment, the method includes generating a touch signal with a signet, the touch signal representing a particular signet pattern, recognizing the particular signet pattern, and performing an action associated with the particular signet pattern.

Abstract: There is provided a portable electronic device including a backlight module, an ambient light sensor, a proximity sensor and a processing unit. The backlight module illuminates with backlight brightness. The ambient light sensor is configured to detect ambient light intensity. The proximity sensor is configured to detect an object. The processing unit is configured to activate the proximity sensor when the ambient light intensity detected by the ambient light sensor is lower than a predetermined value or decreases more than a predetermined range, and to maintain or reduce the backlight brightness according to a detection result of the proximity sensor. There is further provided an automatic detection method.

Abstract: A flow sensor for a pipe includes a housing defining an interior chamber; a mounting adapter that is circumferentially coupled to an open proximal end of the housing; and a piezoelectric cable that at least partially extends within the interior chamber of the housing. The piezoelectric cable includes a piezoelectric material.

Abstract: A driving device that causes a movable body to move stably with minimal backward movement. The driving device includes a plate-shaped driving unit with an elastic body and a piezoelectric element joined to a main surface of the elastic body. Moreover, the movable body is disposed into a cavity of the elastic body and is moved by being pitch fed when the driving unit is driven. The driving unit vibrates with flexural vibration and one more other vibration modes or with vibration of a coupled mode in which the flexural vibration and the other vibration mode are coupled with each other.