College - Author 1

College of Engineering

Department - Author 1

Electrical Engineering Department

Degree Name - Author 1

BS in Electrical Engineering

Date

6-2025

Primary Advisor

Taufik, College of Engineering, Electrical Engineering Department

Abstract/Summary

This work presents the design, fabrication, and testing of a high-voltage piezoelectric actuator driver system purposed for integration into defense and aerospace precision motion control applications, particularly those in laser optics. The core challenge addressed was the mismatch between the standardized 28V DC power bus used in military systems and the significantly higher voltage requirements of piezoelectric actuators. Existing commercial drivers were evaluated and found unsuitable for field deployment due to inadequate ruggedness, excessive complexity, or power limitations. Consequently, a modular system architecture was designed featuring four independent driver channels, each using a high-voltage, high-current linear amplifier topology to scale low-voltage analog inputs into single-ended outputs up to 150V with minimal distortion. Several supporting subsystems were developed, including a 28V to 150V boost converter, a programmable reference voltage generator, onboard current/voltage sensing, and RS-232 serial telemetry, control, and configuration. The hardware was fabricated using multi-layer PCBs, high thermal-capacity layout strategies, and shielded coaxial connectors to ensure signal integrity and EMI resilience. A versatile mechanical enclosure was designed for demonstration purposes that integrates with the system’s fans, LEDs, connectors, etc. Hardware testing confirmed the driver’s ability to deliver up to 150mA per channel, maintain voltage regulation under load, and meet minimum signal bandwidth and slew rate requirements. Simulations and lab test results closely align, validating the design approach and confirming the system's technical viability. While the thermal performance of the boost inductor requires further study and improvement, the prototype met all design targets and offers a strong foundation for future enhancements. This effort demonstrates the feasibility of a compact, rugged, high-voltage piezoelectric actuator driver tailored for next-generation mission-critical control systems.

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