Piezo motor targets portable products

Victor, N.Y. — New Scale Technologies, Inc. has developed a tiny SQL series SQUIGGLE piezo motor to replace its larger SQ-306s motor for portable electronic products. The device features precise linear motion at low power and can withstand greater mechanical shock than previous models.

With a 2.4 x 2.4-mm footprint, the tiny SQL series motor is half the size of the company's previous models. It also features a new metal/ceramic composite construction for greater robustness and lower cost, said the company. Applications include medical devices, wireless security cameras, and auto focus/optical zoom assemblies for mobile phone cameras.

Key specs include:

• Maximum travel: 30 mm
• Resolution: better than 100 nm
• Speed (no load): up to 10 mm/s
• Stall force: up to 4 Newtons
• Minimum input power (moving): 100 mW (5 V)
• Input power (stationery): Zero mW (Zero V)

In addition, the patented ultrasonic motor design touts much lower power consumption than miniature electromagnetic motors, and holds its position when the power is turned off, which conserves battery life. Standard SQL evaluation models are available now in 2.4 mm and 3.4 mm sizes. Custom shaft lengths and travel range are available. Click here to download additional specifications.

Pricing for a SQL evaluation kit for product developers starts at $950. The kit includes an SQL series motor, a credit-card-sized drive electronics card, cables, and software for RS-232 computer control. A manual control handset is optional.

New Scale Technologies, 1-585-924-4450, www.newscaletech.com

Editor's note: For more information on mobile handset design and components, visit Mobile Handset DesignLine.