Design and Simulation of a Dual Piezoelectric-Actuated Stepping Linear Actuator

Conventional stepping piezoelectric inchworm actuators typically require three piezoelectric stacks to achieve stepping motion, where their multi-drive-unit configuration increases control system complexity and structural design challenges. Current research on dual-stack piezoelectric inchworm actuators remains limited, including issues such as motion backtracking and fabrication challenges. To address these challenges, this study proposes an innovative dual-piezoelectric-stack-driven inchworm actuator architecture that integrates a clamping switching mechanism with a flexible displacement amplification unit. This integration enables coordinated motion control in dual-drive mode, effectively reducing control complexity while simplifying structural design and manufacturing requirements. Multiphysics-coupled finite element analysis validated the design rationality, with experimental testing results demonstrating an amplification ratio of 7.1. The analysis revealed that the amplification ratio correlates with bridge arm inclination angle and hinge radius, while remaining independent of material properties, structural thickness, and input displacement.