Review on Multiple‐Degree‐of‐Freedom Cross‐Scale Piezoelectric Actuation Technology

Piezoelectric actuation technology has been widely used in various precise‐oriented fields. Its notable advantages include high resolution, rapid response speed, output force with high density, and immunity to electromagnetic interference. Characteristics of cross‐scale and multiple‐degree‐of‐freedom (multi‐DOF) output motions are of utmost importance in the context of micro‐/nanopositioning technology. For decades, researchers have been working to develop various piezoelectric devices that exploit these important properties. In this review, a comprehensive review of recent research efforts in the field of cross‐scale multi‐DOF piezoelectric drive technology is provided. To commence, it provides an in‐depth exploration of the unique advantages associated with piezoelectric actuation, demonstrating them through comparative analyses with alternative actuation methods. Subsequently, the complexity of piezoelectric cross‐scale motion is introduced, and the multi‐DOF piezoelectric motion is classified in detail. Furthermore, the practical applications of multi‐DOF cross‐scale piezoelectric actuation technology are systematically elucidated, highlighting its versatility and suitability in real‐world environments. Finally, an in‐depth discussion that addresses the challenges encountered in the field is provided, and the prospective directions for further developments in piezoelectric actuation technology are outlined. This scholarly contribution plays an important role in guiding future research and innovative initiatives. Piezoelectric actuation technology has exhibited many highlight features and captured considerable attention of numerous scholars. Herein, a comprehensive review of multiple‐degree‐of‐freedom (multi‐DOF) cross‐scale piezoelectric actuation technology is provided, including unique advantages of piezoelectric actuation, methods achieving cross‐scale piezoelectric actuation, classification of multi‐DOF piezoelectric platforms, and applications of piezoelectric actuation technology. Finally, challenges and prospects are evaluated and discussed.