Dielectric electroactive polymer membranes have been shown to have capabilities both as actuators and generators. Recent models of actuators have shown input to output dynamics that link the electrical energy input to the acceleration of a mass. 1 Models such as these are useful for implementing closed loop control systems and will be necessary in the future for the construction of robust and fault tolerant controls. On the other hand, explanations of the generator behavior of dielectric EAP devices tend to ignore full dynamics. In this paper it is demonstrated that an EAP actuator model with full electrical-mechanical dynamics can be used as a generator model with the generator input force equivalent to the actuator disturbance force. Since the generator and actuator models are equivalent, it can be shown how disturbance inputs can cause energy surges back toward the electrical input. Simulations and experimental results are provided of a device model that describes generation and actuation.
Abstract-A high resolution, portable, surface measurement device has been demonstrated to provide micron-resolution topographical plots. This device was specifically developed to allow in-situ measurements of defects on the Space Shuttle Orbiter windows, but is versatile enough to be used on a wide variety of surfaces. This paper discusses the choice of an optical sensor and then the decisions required to convert a lab bench optical measurement device into an ergonomic portable system. The necessary trade-offs between performance and portability are presented along with a description of the device developed to measure Orbiter window defects.
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