Performance Analysis of a Travelling-Wave Ultrasonic Motor under Impact Load

Abstract

With the increased application of ultrasonic motors, it is necessary to put forward higher demand for the adaptability to environment. Impact, as a type of extreme environment, is widespread in weapon systems, machinery and aerospace. However, there are few reports about the influence of impact on an ultrasonic motor. This article aimed to study the reasons for the performance degradation and failure mechanism of an ultrasonic motor in a shock environment. First, a finite element model is established to observe the dynamic response of ultrasonic motor in a shock environment. Meanwhile, the reasons of the performance degradation in the motor are discussed. An impact experiment is carried out to test the influence of impact on an ultrasonic motor, including the influence on the mechanical characteristic of an ultrasonic motor and the vibration characteristic of a stator. In addition, the protection effect of rubber on an ultrasonic motor in a shock environment is verified via an experimental method. This article reveals the failure mechanism of ultrasonic motors in a shock environment and provides a basis for the improvement of the anti-impact property of ultrasonic motors.