Low-Loss Piezoelectric Transformer Using Energy Trapping of Width Vibration

Piezoelectric transformers proposed by Rosen have been studied for high-voltage step-up applications. A piezoelectric transformer using LiNbO3 proposed recently by Nakamura and Adachi has low loss and a simple structure. The plate of a conventional piezoelectric transformer was supported only at the node of vibration. Rigid support and loss suppression are required for high-power and high-voltage applications. To apply a piezo-electric transformer to a power circuit, we studied methods for supporting the piezoelectric plate and reducing loss. Based on these studies, we proposed a piezoelectric transformer using energy trapping of the width-shear vibration in a LiNbO3 plate.