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miniswys

Piezoelectric linear actuators from Biel

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Challenge

Conventional linear actuators rely on magnets, coils and lead screws - bulky for the force they deliver, power-hungry when holding position, and unsuitable wherever magnetic fields or EMI are a problem. High-precision optics, medical devices and scientific instruments needed something smaller, quieter and non-magnetic.

Precision mechanics in Biel, where the actuator platform was built

Solution

miniswys builds ultrasonic piezoelectric micro-motors that turn high-frequency piezo vibrations into precise linear (or rotary) motion through friction. Born in Biel’s watchmaking ecosystem, the platform offers unlimited stroke, sub-micron closed-loop precision, zero power at standstill, low-voltage drive and no magnets - backed by 50+ patents worldwide.

  • Sub-micron positioning - the resolution the platform was built for
  • An actuator assembly, opened up

Results

The actuators serve optics and photonics, microscopy, robotics, medical devices, aerospace and precision mechanics (including MicroReg for watch regulation). Demo modules reach tens of mm/s; lifetime testing has shown tens of kilometres of cumulative travel. An Innovation Kit lets R&D teams evaluate the technology hands-on.

Series production of the actuators

At a glance

Founded
2004 · Biel/Bienne, Switzerland
Patent families
50+ worldwide
Key benefits
Unlimited stroke · zero hold power · non-magnetic
Site
miniswys.com

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