Piezoelectric Devices in Biomedical Applications

Peter A. Lewin

Peter A. Lewin

Drexel University, Science and Health Systems and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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John M. Reid

John M. Reid

Drexel University, Science and Health Systems and Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, School of Biomedical Engineering, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

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First published: 14 April 2006
Citations: 3

Abstract

We focus on piezoelectric devices in biomedical applications only. The devices are classified depending on their electrical, mechanical, or hybrid output signal. The hybrid device operates in a reversible mode and can generate both electrical and mechanical signals at its terminals. Electrical output piezoelectric sensors include frequency generators, force and pressure measurement sensors, accelerometers, velocity and displacement sensors, and receivers such as microphones. Linear scanning motors and acoustic wave generators fall into the category of mechanical output devices or actuators. Also, acoustic wave generators, such as lithotripters, loudspeakers, and ultrasonic therapy applicators, can be considered as actuators. Medical ultrasonic transducers used to generate images of internal organs of the body can be defined as hybrid or combination devices, as they act as both actuators and receivers producing an electrical signal proportional to the input mechanical stimulus at their terminals, and conversely, a mechanical displacement amplitude proportional to the electrical excitation.

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