On a Piezoelectric Flapper Type Servovalve Operated by a Pulse-Width-Modulated-Signal

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Abstract
As a first step to developing a servovalve with minimum moving parts, a new servovalve is devised in which a piezoelectric flapper (a quartz strip) is used instead of a conventional flapper actuated through a torque motor. A servovalve of this type is desirable from the viewpoint of fast response, however it has not been in common use because of the strong hysteresis of piezoelectric material. In order to linearize the nonlinear characteristics of the flapper, a pulse width modulated wave is used as the input signal to the flapper. The frequency characteristics of the pulse width modulator is theoretically analyzed in detail to establish the theoretical basis of the pulse width modulation control system. As well-known, this basis has been ambiguous so far. The experimental frequency responses show that the bandwidth of the servovalve using this new technique is comparable to that of conventional valves having the same power output in spite of its simple construction in comparison with conventional ones.

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