Performance of ultrasonic mini-motors using design of experiments

Abstract

This paper describes speed-torque characteristics of a parametrized set of 8 mm diameter tall ultrasonic motors fabricated using design of experiments. Design of experiments methods provide for a way of developing a model based on the gathering of data and a way of analysing the data to compute both quantitative and qualitative results which can point towards an optimal set of parameters for the final design. Ultrasonic motors are known for their high-torque, low-speed characteristics. These devices have demonstrated maximum no-load speeds of 1710 rpm and peak power outputs of 27 mW. Stall torques of these 8 mm motors have been measured as high as , yielding roughly 50 times the stall torque density of the smallest commercially available DC motors. Results of the study yield insight into optimizing stall torques and no-load speeds of miniature ultrasonic motors.