TDK introduces PowerHap piezoelectric actuators with haptic feedback

     The innovative PowerHap piezoelectric actuator with haptic feedback and integrated sensor capabilities is now available in three compact models: 0909H011V060, 1313H018V120 and 2626H023V120. Under a load of 100 g, the three products can generate ultra-high acceleration of 2.5g, 7g and 35g respectively. These components offer unmatched performance in terms of force and response time, providing previously unprecedented tactile feedback quality. This compact and powerful actuator greatly enhances the sensing experience of human-computer interaction (HMI) by combining the sensitivity of various human antennae.

     The basis of the PowerHap actuator with haptic feedback is a multilayer piezoelectric plate with a free copper internal electrode. It is with multilayer piezoboard technology that PowerHap™ actuators can be driven by relatively low operating voltages: up to 60 V or 120 V (depending on the model). When started, the piezoelectric plate expands only slightly along the z axis and contracts along the x and y axes due to quantitative piezoelectric effects. This type of element uses cymbals on both sides of the platen as operating rods to extend the shrinkage up to 15 times on the z-axis.

     Compared to conventional electromagnetic brakes such as eccentric rotary motor actuators (ERM) and linear resonant actuators (LRA), PowerHap™ has excellent acceleration and force, low insertion height and shortest response time, and requires very little power per click from 0.09mC to 0.8mC, depending on the model. This is an all-in-one standalone component with integrated sensing functions.

     Unlike conventional electromagnetic actuators, PowerHap™ actuators can stimulate stimuli ranging from 1 Hz to 500 Hz. As a result, such tactile piezoelectric actuators have no significant frequency and amplitude limitations for custom tactile feedback of major human mechanoreceptors. As a result, the new actuator enables designers to customise the development of high definition haptic feedback profiles that users expect from cutting-edge human-computer interaction. PowerHap™ is used in vehicles, smartphones and tablets, appliances, automated teller machines (ATMs) and vending machines, game controllers, industrial equipment, and therapeutic devices.