A frequency of a drive signal supplied to a piezoelectric element is swept within a specific range, a detection signal indicating the vibrating state of a vibrating member is detected, and the sweep speed of the drive signal frequency supplied to the piezoelectric element is controlled based on this detection signal. Thus, even if nonuniformities occur in the drive frequency of the piezoelectric element due to fluctuations in the surrounding temperature or the load, such nonuniformities can be overcome without any adjustments, and the piezoelectric element can be reliably driven. Also, since the sweep speed of the drive signal frequency is at a high speed when the vibrating member is in a non-drive state, needless drive signal output time during which the piezoelectric element cannot be driven can be reduced, needless power consumption can be curtailed, and nonuniformities in the drive speed of the driven object can also be reduced.

 
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