Biomimetic Ultrasonic Vibrator with Broadband Characteristics Inspired by Leaf-Cutting Ants

Abstract

Power ultrasound is widely used in industrial production, medical equipment, aerospace, and other fields. Currently, there are two main types of commonly used power generation devices: piezoelectric ultrasonic transducers and magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducers. However, in certain situations with limited external dimensions, the applications of existing power ultrasound devices are limited. In nature, leaf-cutting ants excite vibrations through their tiny organs. Inspired by the vibratory organs of leaf-cutting ants, a new type of biomimetic ultrasonic vibrator (BUV) comprising a scraper, dentate disc, and fixture system was proposed, fabricated, and tested in this study. The experimental results showed that the BUV could operate in the frequency range of 16.8–19 kHz. Within the working frequency range, the vibration of the BUV was stable and the amplitude of the vibration displacement was greater than 22 µm. The operating frequency band of the BUV was broader than those of the piezoelectric and magnetostrictive ultrasonic transducers. In addition, the BUV can cut soft rubber and pig tissues with sufficient output power and load-carrying capacity. The BUV, as a new type of power ultrasonic excitation device, is expected to be applied in high-power micro operating scenarios, such as minimally invasive surgical instruments.