An Ultrasonic Motor Using Thrust Bearing with Dimple Structure on the Friction Surface

Abstract

An ultrasonic motor using thrust ball bearing with dimple structure on the friction surface has been proposed. The bearing balls are rotated by the friction force caused by the ultrasonic vibration of the stator, and transfer torque to the rotor. The dimple structure on the sliding surface can hold the ball position and rotate the balls and the rotor without a retainer. The newly proposed motor can avoid the friction loss between balls and the retainer. The balls of 2.4 mm in radius are used and the radii of the curvature of the dimples of 2.0 mm and 3.0 mm are used in this research. The radius difference changes the contact condition between the balls and the dimple structure. Fundamental motor characteristics are measured and discussed.