Hysteresis is a common phenomenon in various non linear systems including piezoceramic materials. Piezoelectric bimorph devices show hysteretic behaviour, when operating as actuators. In this paper an experimental set-up to investigate the hysteretic behaviour of a PZT is described. The strategy adopted uses a resistive readout scheme and a CCD tool for the system calibration. Moreover, softwar...

This research focused on improving the control and sensing of electrostatically actuated, large deflection bimorph beams for optical beam steering. Current iterations of designs utilize a ‘zipper’ beam and have demonstrated large deflection angles. However, with these devices precise control and deflection measurements can be difficult to achieve. Through using segmented bias channels of doped ...

A device composed of a piezoelectric bimorph cantilever and a water electrolysis device was fabricated to realize piezoelectrochemical hydrogen production. The obvious output of the hydrogen and oxygen through application of a mechanical vibration of ~0.07 N and ~46.2 Hz was observed. This method provides a cost-effective, recyclable, environment-friendly and simple way to directly split water ...

We discuss the concept of lightweight segmented bimorph mirrors for adaptive optics. The segment consists of a monocrystal silicon substrate actuated by an array of in-plane piezoceramic (PZT) actuators with honeycomb electrodes. We focus on technological aspects of the segment design that are critical for space applications and describe a single segment demonstrator. The morphing capability of...