Piezo motor targets portable products

New Scale Technologies Inc. has developed a tiny SQL series SQUIGGLE piezo motor to replace its larger SQ-306s motor for portable electronic products. The device promises precise linear motion at low power, and can withstand greater mechanical shock than previous models.

With a 2.4-by-2.4mm footprint, the tiny SQL series motor is half the size of the company's previous models. This product features a new metal/ceramic composite construction for greater robustness and lower cost, said the company. Applications include medical devices, wireless security cameras, and auto focus/optical zoom assemblies for mobile phone cameras.

Key specs include a 30mm maximum travel, better than 100nm resolution, up to 10mm/s speed (no load) and up to 4 Newtons stall force. Minimum input power (moving) is 100mW (5V), and input power (stationery) is 0 (Zero V).

Additionally, said New Scale, the patented ultrasonic motor design touts much lower power consumption than miniature electromagnetic motors, and holds its position when the power is turned off, which conserves battery life. Standard SQL evaluation models are available in 2.4mm and 3.4mm sizes. Custom shaft lengths and travel range are also available.

Pricing for a SQL evaluation kit for product developers starts at $950. The kit includes an SQL series motor, a credit-card-sized drive electronics card, cables and software for RS-232 computer control. A manual control handset is optional.

- Gina Roos
EeProductCenter