Modeling characterization and optimization design for PZT transducer used in Near Field Acoustic Levitation

An acoustic actuator with large radiation surface has been used in a non-contact levitation system. The actuator is composed of a Langevin transducer and a disk-shape radiator. A comprehensive modeling approach has been developed to simulate electrical and mechanical characterization. A coupled-field finite element analysis has been performed considering the vibrator with flexural mode. Identical experimental conditions were used in the simulation to investigate size effect and optimize the transducer design. The stimulated results show good agreement with experimental measurements. This model may be employed to facilitate the analysis and optimization of Near Field Acoustic Levitation transducer assemblies. Moreover, this paper demonstrated the important role that modeling plays in the design, fabrication and optimization of coupled transducers. (C) 2011 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.