Abstract
This paper advances the design of Rod Pre-strained Dielectric Elastomer Actuators (RP-DEAs) in their capability to generate comparatively large static actuation forces with increased lifetime via optimized electrode arrangements. RP-DEAs utilize thin stiff rods to constrain the expansion of the elastomer and maintain the in-plane pre-strain in the rod longitudinal direction. The aim is to study both the force output and the durability of the RP-DEA. Initial design of the RP-DEA had poor durability, however, it generated significantly larger force compared with the conventional DEA due to the effects of pre-strain and rod constraints. The durability study identifies the in-electro-active-region (in-AR) lead contact and the non-uniform deformation of the structure as causes of pre-mature failure of the RP-DEA. An optimized AR configuration is proposed to avoid actuating undesired areas in the structure. The results show that with the optimized AR, the RP-DEA can be effectively stabilized and survive operation at least four times longer than with a conventional electrode arrangement. Finally, a Finite Element simulation was also performed to demonstrate that such AR design and optimization can be guided by analyzing the DEA structure in the state of pre-activation.
Original language | English |
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Pages (from-to) | 20 |
Journal | Actuators |
Volume | 5 |
Issue number | 3 |
DOIs | |
Publication status | Published - 21 Jul 2016 |
Keywords
- DEA
- topological optimization
- pre-strain
- fiber enhancement
- rod pre-strain
- RP-DEA
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Patrick Keogh
- Department of Mechanical Engineering - Head of Department
- Centre for Digital, Manufacturing & Design (dMaDe)
Person: Research & Teaching, Core staff