title: Electromechanical linear actuators for Fourier transform spectrometers: a concept for extended range, high-resolution, solid-state actuators.
abstract: A piezoelectric effect device is reported that provides highly controllable, extended linear motion in an easily usable package. Recent advances in materials, materials processing, and piezoelectric mechanics have been synthesized to demonstrate an all-solid-state electromechanical actuator for Fourier transform spectrometer mirror position control. This actuator is inherently linear and is therefore a major improvement in efficiency, size, and mass over motors and lead screws, which require conversion from rotary to linear actuation. Velocity control of 1% has been demonstrated over a range of 0.5 cm at a velocity of 1 cm/s. Scaling to a range of 4 cm and a velocity of 4 cm/s is discussed and currently appears feasible.
authors.forename: S P
authors.initials: SP
authors.lastname: Sandford
authors.forename: W S
authors.initials: WS
authors.lastname: Luck
authors.forename: W W
authors.initials: WW
authors.lastname: Rohrbach