Session: SYMP 3-5: Actuator Systems

Paper Number: 141354

141354 - Analytical Modeling and Shape Matching Design Optimization of an N-Cap Lithium-Ion Battery Actuator 

Actuators are fundamental components of modern technology, and with the proper inclusion of silicon, a lithium-ion battery can be used as an actuator as well. The parameters of such an actuator must be rigorously studied in a theoretical reality. This research concerns analytical modeling and shape matching design optimization of a lithium-ion battery actuator composed of any number of cathode-anode pairs (N-CAP).  

Simulations for two distinct cases, 13- and 33- layers, that were created prior have accurately displayed properties of a lithium-ion battery actuator, such as blocked force and bimorph deflection. However, these models were limited in their capabilities and could not show these properties for a battery actuator beyond a 2-CAP or 6-CAP case. This research works to combine the algorithms of the 13- and 33- layer simulations and creates a generalized code to predict the properties of a lithium-ion battery actuator composed of any number of cathode-anode pairs. Furthermore, the simulations for the prior cases did not model their respective battery actuators with all relevant characteristics of the various materials included in the functions that created the models. The improved simulations account for such characteristics and properly visualize the requested battery actuator’s properties. 

In tandem with the data compiled by the N-CAP functions, a genetic algorithm is used to process different combinations of material characteristics so that suitable parameters can be determined for scenarios in which this technology would face physical application. When the genetic algorithm is applied, the increase in variable parameters (such as the number of cells within the battery actuator) permits an increase in the possible configurations the algorithm can calculate, resulting in a far larger range of real-world situations that can be properly simulated. 

MATLAB is used to create an algorithm that can provide the actuator metrics and order for any size matrix of N-CAPs, and subsequently determine the metrics associated with a change in the State of Charge (SOC) of the battery actuator. A finite element analysis solver, COMSOL Multiphysics, is used to further scrutinize actuator metrics and determine accurate quantifications of bending behaviors and the forces generated. The genetic algorithm is created in MATLAB and iterates on existing code to generate suitable configurations. 

Lithium-ion battery actuators yield quieter actuation, which can lead to the development and possible revolutionization of modern actuators. The N-CAP functions, combined with the associated programs in COMSOL Multiphysics and the genetic algorithm, are working to manifest such an actuator. 

Presenting Author: Austin Herrod The University of Texas at San Antonio

Presenting Author Biography: Austin is an undergraduate student working towards a bachelor's degree in Mechanical Engineering at the University of Texas at San Antonio. Austin has been a member of UTSA's D.A.R.T Lab for the past year, and he hopes to pursue a career in research.

Authors:

Austin Herrod
Bryan LeBlanc
Cody Gonzalez