Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs), with the advantages of high energy density, large actuation strain and light weight, have been explored for numerous assistive related applications, including refreshable tactile displays, tunable optics, and bio-mimic robotics. However, their steps to practical applications are limited by the poor reliability and durability, especially under large actuation strain. Here we report a self-clearable compliant electrode comprising an ultra-thin singlewalled carbon nanotube (SWNT) electrode with an overcoated thin polymer layer. This bilayer electrode can provide the acrylic-based DEAs with a long lifetime stably under both cyclic and continuous actuation at 150% actuation strain in area.
Bistable electroactive polymers (BSEP) combine shape memory with large-strain actuation at the rubbery state to achieve rigid-to-rigid actuation. The stiffness of the BSEP is tunable via glass transition or phase changing. The reversible melting-crystallization of the polymer chains in the phase changing BSEP contributes to the stiffness change within a narrow temperature range. A modulus change of more than 1000 folds can be achieved within 3 °C. Additionally, large actuation strains rivaling those of VHB acrylic elastomers can be obtained at the rubbery state. Explorations regarding potential applications of this material have been focused on tactile displays. In one design, Joule heating of a serpentine-shaped compliant electrode coated on a BSEP film, coupled with a pneumatic pressure source has been employed to raise diaphragm dots with 1.5 mm base diameter to heights up to 0.7 mm. The resulting Braille electronic readers could thus be actuated with low voltages.
Access to the requested content is limited to institutions that have purchased or subscribe to SPIE eBooks.
You are receiving this notice because your organization may not have SPIE eBooks access.*
*Shibboleth/Open Athens users─please
sign in
to access your institution's subscriptions.
To obtain this item, you may purchase the complete book in print or electronic format on
SPIE.org.
INSTITUTIONAL Select your institution to access the SPIE Digital Library.
PERSONAL Sign in with your SPIE account to access your personal subscriptions or to use specific features such as save to my library, sign up for alerts, save searches, etc.