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.
Highlights
The demand for soft active wearable devices, either in exoskeletons or rehabilitation robotics requires novel actuation solutions that can be closely, harmlessly and comfortably embedded to assist, enhance and regulate typical human motions
The large force outputs and the the quicker quicker risingfound trendinwere were found in direction direction compared2
An investigation has been undertaken to study the effect of bi-axial pre-loading on the force output of a conventional Dielectric Elastomer Actuator (DEA), compared with that from the new Rod Pre-strained Dielectric Elastomer Actuators (RP-DEAs)
Summary
The demand for soft active wearable devices, either in exoskeletons or rehabilitation robotics requires novel actuation solutions that can be closely, harmlessly and comfortably embedded to assist, enhance and regulate typical human motions. Dielectric Elastomers (DEs) are in a specific class of Electro-Active Polymers (EAPs) that are of particular research interest due to their simplicity of structure, low mass/inertia, robustness, noise-free operation, and actuation force density that is similar to that of human muscles [1,2,3,4,5,6,7,8,9,10]. A Dielectric Elastomer Actuator (DEA) may be fabricated from a single layer of DE that is coated with a compliant conductive material on both sides.
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
