Piezo-actuators for force feedback in human-computer interfaces: Advantages and drawbacks with regard to electromagnetic actuation

Haptic feedback is commonly achieved using electromagnetic actuators. Then, they have to be coupled with mechanical reducers, leading to large bulk size. To cope with this problem, piezo- actuators are proposed. This paper aims at discussing about the advantages and drawbacks of these actuators for haptic applications, on the point of view of control, stability, and passivity. The discussion will rely on experimental set-up involving piezo-electric travelling wave actuators.