Based on patented technology licensed from NASA, THUNDER(TM) solid-state actuators and sensors use a pre-stressed piezoceramic element bonded between metallic layers with a polyamide adhesive. The composite structure with characteristic curvature allows the piezoceramic element to withstand higher voltages.
The low-cost, high-displacement actuator or sensor design is robust, reliable, and offers low power consumption and efficient energy conversion. Devices come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes--disks, squares, and strips--from a few millimeters to many centimeters in size.
Various mounting and multiplexed configurations, such as nested or clamshell stacks, offer flexibility to customize displacement or force to specific applications such as motors, pumps, or valves.
Norvell Rose, Race Intl. Corp., (P) 427 West 35th St., Norfolk, VA 23508; (757) 624-2121.
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