Actuator Design

Abstract

Actuators are the most important elements of any haptic device. Their selection or design significantly influences the quality of the haptic impression. This chapter deals with commonly used actuators, organized according to their physical principle of operation. It focuses on the electrodynamic, electromagnetic, electrostatic and piezoelectric actuator principles. Each actuator type is discussed in terms of its main physical principles, with examples of sizing and one or more applications. Other, less frequently used actuator principles are mentioned in several examples. The preceding chapters focused on the basics of control engineering and kinematic design. They covered topics of structuring and fundamental character. This and the following chapters deal with the design of technical components as parts of haptic devices. Experience teaches us that actuators for haptic applications can rarely be found “off-the-shelf”. Their requirements always include some outstanding features in rotational frequency, power-density, working point, or geometry. These specialities make it necessary and helpful for users to be aware of the capabilities and possibilities for modifying existing actuators. Hence this chapter addresses both groups of readers: the users who want to choose a certain actuator and the mechanical engineer who intends to design a specific actuator for a certain device from scratch.