Piezoelectric bimorph actuator with integrated strain sensing electrodes

This article describes a new method for estimating the tip displacement of piezoelectric benders. Two resistive strain gauges are fabricated within the top and bottom electrodes using an acid etching process. These strain gauges are employed in a half bridge electrical configuration to measure the surface resistance change, and estimate the tip displacement. Experimental validation shows a 1.1 % maximum difference between the strain sensor and a laser triangulation sensor.