Linear Vibration Motor

Within our Precision Haptic™ range of vibration motors, we offer several types of Linear Resonant Actuator (LRA) vibration motors (also known as linear vibrators). LRA motors are different to Eccentric Rotating Mass (ERM) vibration motors in the way that they work, they are used, and how long they last. If you have an application that requires a durable vibration, or a high confidence MTTF rating, consider our Linear Resonant Actuator vibration motors as an alternative to long life brushless vibration motors. But, understand that that longer life and control does come at a slightly increased cost of complexity – continue reading to find out more.

Those readers familiar with vibration, RF, or audio engineering, will quickly spot that attaching a mass to a spring causes a resonance effect. The combination of spring stiffness, mass and magnet / coil size will cause the linear vibrator to have a natural resonant frequency.

This natural resonant frequency is where the LRA is most efficient in its operation. Typically for Y-axis vibrators resonant frequencies are around 175 – 235 Hz, see our range here.

We manufacture both rectangular and coin type LRA’s.

Due to their fast rise and fall times and superior braking ability, linear resonant actuators (LRA) vibration motors are an excellent choice for haptic feedback applications. Their relatively simple internal construction also offers high reliability and exceptionally long life when compared with brushed ERM motors. NFP’s rectangular LRA’s have an internal mass that oscillates back and forth along the X-axis at its resonant frequency. Our coin shaped linear resonant actuators oscillate along the Z axis, perpendicular to the motors surface. This Z axis vibration efficiently transmits vibrations in wearable applications. In Hi-Rel applications, they are a viable alternative to brushless vibration motors as the only internal parts that are subjected to wear / failure are the springs.