The Inchworm

Clamp the right-hand end. (4) Uncl amp section 1. (5) Contract the center section. (6) Clamp section 1. (7) Unclamp section 3. (Courtesy of Burleigh Instruments, Inc.) 

The outer two PZT elements, numbered 1 and 3, act as clamps. When a voltage is applied to one of them, its diameter shrinks to grip the shaft tightly. The center section does not contact with the shaft, but the length can change according to the applied voltage. The function of the Inchworm is illustrated in Fig. 12.8. 

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Fig. 12.8. The Inchworm . It consists of an alumina shaft, slid inside a piezoelectric tube, which consists of three sections. Top, a photograph of the Microlnchworm Motor, actual size. Right, walking mechanism (1) Clamp the left-hand side by applying a voltage to section 1. (2) Extend section 2. (3)...

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See also in sourсe #XX -- [ ]

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