Session: 04-07: Novel Actuators

Paper Number: 111273

111273 - Demonstrator for Linear Dielectric Elatomer Actuator Systems Coupled to Compliant Joint Linkage Transmission Mechanisms 

Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are known for their excellent properties such as low weight, high energy density and dynamic operation and thus satisfy a wide range of applications such as valves [1], pumps [2] and even loudspeakers [3]. In comparison to conventional actuators such as solenoids, DEAs are mainly based on widely available and generally inexpensive polymer materials such as rubber [4], silicone [5] or acrylics [6]. They are usually provided with carbon-based electrodes by manufacturing processes such as screen printing [7] or spray coating [8]. In principle, it is thus possible to develop very cost-effective actuator systems based on this technology. To achieve this, however, other factors must also be taken into account, such as the development of standardized and scalable system designs, which use identical parts. This reduces product variation and increases production quantities, so that mass production processes can be used, which in turn lead to lower unit costs [9, 10].
This work steps into this direction by presenting a compact DEA linear drive unit equipped with a scissor linkage transmission mechanism that is configurable in force and stroke output. Using this approach, different load-profiles can be served by the same standardized DEA design without changing its shape or dimension. The functional principle of this approach is already proven, with focus on optimal system performance, which only allows binary control [11]. Focus of the present work is on a compact demonstrator design with a more conservative layout that also allows proportional operation. It is based on a simple rectangular-shaped DEA, which is operating in-plane and is particularly suitable for low-profile system designs. It is pre-loaded with a slim beam-shaped spring with a negative slope characteristics in order to obtain high output stroke and overall output performance. The transmission mechanism is also polymer-based and designed as a single body, which is also flat and based on compliant joints and rigid links. Amplification of the stroke or force respectively can be achieved by appropriate design of the lever ratios of the input and output sides of the mechanism. Two actuator systems based on the same DEA design are presented for demonstration purposes, one of which is force-magnifying and one of which is stroke-magnifying. Both systems are characterized experimentally with respect to their transmission properties and force-displacement behavior.

Presenting Author: Julian Neu Center for Mechatronics and Automation Technology (ZeMA) gGmbH

Presenting Author Biography: Julian Neu
Center for Mechatronics and Automation Technology (ZeMA) gGmbH