Braided piezoelectric element, fabric-like piezoelectric element using braided piezoelectric element, and device using same

Abstract

Provided is a configuration capable of improving the signal strength of a piezoelectric element using piezoelectric fibers. This braided piezoelectric element comprises a core comprising conductive fibers and a sheath comprising braided piezoelectric fibers so as to cover the core, the braided piezoelectric element further comprising a metal terminal connected and fixed to the core in either of the following states A or B. A) A state where a portion of the metal terminal grasps a fiber portion constituting the end of a braided piezoelectric element and the core and the metal terminal are electrically connected to each other and fixed within 1 mm from where the metal terminal grasps the fiber portion. B) A state where: a portion of the metal terminal has a fork or needle shape; the fork-shaped or needle-shaped portion is electrically connected to the core while in contact with the sheath; and the braided piezoelectric element is secured to the metal terminal by another portion of the metal terminal or a component fixed to the metal terminal within 10 mm from the point of the electrical connection.