Optimal Synthesis of Conically Shaped Dielectric Elastomer Linear Actuators: Design Methodology and Experimental Validation

Berselli, Giovanni; Vertechy, Rocco; Vassura, Gabriele; Parenti‐Castelli, Vincenzo

doi:10.1109/tmech.2010.2090664

Cited by 78 publications

(82 citation statements)

References 29 publications

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“…Recently, smart materials as piezoelectric [5], magnetostrictive [6], and electroactive ionic polymers [7]- [9] have been applied to linear actuators. Today, a new step in designing linear actuators is happening.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

On Using Meissner Effect to Conceive a New Linear Electromagnetic Launcher by Zero-Field-Cooling YBCO Bulk Superconductors

Branco

Almeida

Dente

2014

IEEE Trans. Ind. Electron.

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A new YBCO superconducting linear propulsion system that uses the Meissner effect for thrust is proposed. A YBCO bulk is used in the vehicle, which is excited synchronous with a magnetic field traveling wave. The propulsion system's model is developed using a magnetic circuit method and the Maxwell stress tensor analysis. The vehicle acceleration and thrust force characteristics previewed from that model are verified and analyzed by practical measurements and a set of essays using the prototype built in our laboratory. Major errors came for thermally activated flux creep and current conduction in the YBCO during its passage through the excitation system. The total magnetic field at the superconductor's surface decreases, reducing thrust force. Despite these secondary effects, achieved results show the potential of this new approach for future electric propulsion systems.

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Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

On Using Meissner Effect to Conceive a New Linear Electromagnetic Launcher by Zero-Field-Cooling YBCO Bulk Superconductors

Branco

Almeida

Dente

2014

IEEE Trans. Ind. Electron.

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“…Cone DEAs are formed from a flat elastomer film that is deformed into an axisymmetric cone geometry via a central axial protrusion (Figure 1(a)). Cone DEAs have been considered previously as single cones capable of 1-DOF outputs where a single spring [10,11] (Figure 1(b)) or spring-loaded parallel mechanism [12] (Figure 1(c)) provides the protrusion force. A single cone capable of a 2-DOF output can be created using a strut component attached to a revolute joint (Figure 1(d)), where agonist-antagonist pairs are formed within the same elastomer film, either side of the strut.…”

Section: Introductionmentioning

confidence: 99%

Antagonistic dielectric elastomer actuator for biologically-inspired robotics

Conn

Rossiter

2011

SPIE Proceedings

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For optimal performance, actuators designed for biologically-inspired robotics applications need to be capable of mimicking the key characteristics of natural musculoskeletal systems. These characteristics include a large output stroke, high energy density, antagonistic operation and passive compliance. The actuation properties of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) make them viable for use as an artificial muscle technology. However, much like the musculoskeletal system, rigid structures are needed to couple the compliant DEA layers to a load. In this paper, a cone DEA design is developed as an antagonistic, multi-DOF actuator, viable for a variety for biologically-inspired robotics applications. The design has the advantage of maintaining pre-strain through a support structure without substantially lowering the overall mass-specific power density. Prototype cone DEAs have been fabricated with VHB 4910 acrylic elastomer and have characteristic dimensions of 49mm (strut length) and 60mm (DEA diameter). Multi-DOF kinematical outputs of the cone DEAs were measured using a custom 3D motion tracking system. Experimental tests of the prototypes demonstrate antagonistic linear (±10mm), rotational (±25°) and combined multi-DOF strokes. Overall, antagonistic cone DEAs are shown to produce a complex multi-DOF output from a mass-efficient support structure and thus are well suited for being exploited in biologically-inspired robotics.

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“…The two DEAs were modelled as conical actuators, with a principle of operation similar to the one described by Berselli et al [17]. The model was used to calculate the forces exerted by the actuators on the bistable mechanism, and thus provide the input forces for the FEM model.…”

Section: The De Actuatorsmentioning

confidence: 99%

Design of a compact bistable mechanism based on dielectric elastomer actuators

2015

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Bistable mechanisms are widely used in the applications where two stable positions must be held for long time without energy consumption. The main advantage of bistable mechanisms is a sensible reduction in bulkiness and energy cost. Among the possible active triggering systems, dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are gaining attention, for their efficiency and strain rate, as a viable alternative to traditional technologies. In the present work, a novel design of a bistable system is proposed, counting on a cross-like shape bistable element coupled with two axially arranged conical DEAs. Analytical and FEM models have been used to implement and analyze the behavior of the single components and the final coupled system. The obtained results confirm the feasibility of the switching process between the equilibrium points and the capability to capture and numerically describe the interactions between the actuators and the bistable beams. A specific device has been finally envisaged to exemplify the possibility to develop a light-weight and compact system able to sustain and passively maintain a linear displacement which equals the 46 % of its own total length

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Optimal Synthesis of Conically Shaped Dielectric Elastomer Linear Actuators: Design Methodology and Experimental Validation

Cited by 78 publications

References 29 publications

On Using Meissner Effect to Conceive a New Linear Electromagnetic Launcher by Zero-Field-Cooling YBCO Bulk Superconductors

On Using Meissner Effect to Conceive a New Linear Electromagnetic Launcher by Zero-Field-Cooling YBCO Bulk Superconductors

Antagonistic dielectric elastomer actuator for biologically-inspired robotics

Design of a compact bistable mechanism based on dielectric elastomer actuators

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