vibrotor

A vibrotor is a device intended to generate controlled mechanical vibrations. The term is used in multiple contexts and can describe both macro-scale vibration exciters and micro-scale vibrating rotors found in MEMS devices. In most cases, a vibrotor converts electrical energy into kinetic energy by causing a rotor to rotate with an off-center mass or by using an active actuator to impart axial or tangential motion.

Common implementations include eccentric rotating mass vibrators (ERM), where a small motor spins a counterweight, producing vibration proportional to motor speed and mass; and piezoelectric or electrostrictive vibrotors, where a compact actuator drives a rotor or vibrating element at high frequencies with greater precision. Many vibrotors include control electronics for speed, phase, and amplitude, and may feature mounting interfaces for vibration testing setups, haptic devices, or sensors.

Applications vary by scale: macro-scale vibrotors are used in vibration testing shakers, compact haptic actuators in consumer electronics, and industrial vibratory feeders or compact cleaning equipment; micro-scale vibrotors are used in MEMS-based timing devices, mechanical filters, and microfluidic mixers. The design considerations include frequency range, amplitude, power consumption, and thermal management.

The term does not denote a single standardized device, but rather a class of vibration-inducing rotors and actuators. See also vibration motor, MEMS vibratory devices, and ultrasonic transducers.