Application Cases

【Overview】
In this study, the Aigtek ATA-2022B high-voltage amplifier was used to build an ultrasonic microrobot research system to investigate the influence of key parameters such as ultrasonic driving frequency, voltage, and pipeline dimensions on the motion performance of the microrobot.

Experiment Name: Fabrication of Ultrasonic Microrobots, Characterization of Vibration Characteristics, Motion Performance Testing, and Experimental Research in Complex Pipeline Environments

Experiment Objective:
To investigate the influence of key parameters such as ultrasonic driving frequency, voltage, and pipeline dimensions on the motion performance of the microrobot, and to verify its high speed, low voltage, strong climbing ability, and high load capacity using MEMS-based piezoelectric thin films and frequency modulation technology, thereby supporting efficient real-time inspection requirements in complex pipelines.

Testing Equipment:
Function waveform generator, voltage amplifier, electrode leads and pipeline fixing device, integrated optical high-speed camera, laser Doppler vibrometer, infrared thermal imager, precision displacement platform, scanning electron microscope, impedance analyzer, and finite element simulation platform.

Experimental Procedure:
Ultrasonic microrobots were studied, and MEMS-based ultra-thin piezoelectric composite film structures combined with ultrasonic frequency modulation technology were used to achieve ultra-fast bidirectional motion verification in narrow pipelines. First, the fabrication and structural characterization of the robot were completed, with resonance frequency and vibration mode confirmed using SEM and impedance testing. Subsequently, combined with finite element analysis and laser vibrometry, the system was driven by a function generator and amplifier, achieving a peak speed of 81 cm/s in a 21 mm pipeline, and bidirectional control was realized through frequency modulation. The adaptability of the robot was tested in different pipeline environments. Finally, through real-time motion analysis, climbing, and load evaluation, the system was confirmed to possess low-voltage drive, high speed, and strong robustness, meeting the requirements for complex pipeline inspection.

Figure 1: Flowchart of the Electrical/Dynamic Measurement Experiment

Experimental Results:
The MEMS-fabricated ultra-thin piezoelectric composite film structure enabled ultra-fast bidirectional motion control of the ultrasonic microrobot, achieving a peak speed of 81 cm/s at a driving frequency of 54.8 kHz, with a motion direction switching response time of <0.3 s. The system could start at an extremely low driving voltage of 3 Vpp, with a load capacity exceeding 36 times its own weight and a slope climbing angle of 24.25°. Frequency modulation enabled precise bidirectional control, maintaining stable motion in pipelines of different diameters and various materials, with a 100% passing rate in L-shaped bends. Integrated micro-endoscopy achieved online image acquisition, verifying that the method fully meets the requirements of complex pipeline inspection in terms of motion speed, load capacity, and environmental adaptability.

Figure 2: Motion Demonstration and Analysis of the Microrobot in Pipelines of Different Shapes

Figure 3: Driving Performance Comparison, Climbing, and Load Capacity Demonstration

Advantages of Aigtek Amplifiers in This Application:

1. DC–1 MHz wide bandwidth and high slew rate – Precisely achieves frequency modulation bidirectional control and ultra-fast response.

2. 200 Vp-p high voltage output and 0.1-step fine gain adjustment – Covers ultra-low start-up voltage while providing ample power margin.

3. Low distortion and high output stability – Ensures motion consistency in complex environments such as L-shaped bends and pipelines made of multiple materials.

Recommended Product: ATA-2022B High-Voltage Amplifier

Figure: ATA-2022B High-Voltage Amplifier Specifications and Parameters