Development of an Application-oriented Design Tool for Multilayer Stack Actuators based on Dielectric Elastomer Materials

Abstract:
In this contribution, a design tool for multilayer stack actuators is presented. In contrast to previous works, the implemented electro-mechanical model considers the elastomer, electrode, and electrical contacting layers as well as the encapsulation. Extending the DE-actuator model by electrical limitations, such as limited current and power, allows an evaluation of system consisting of the DE-actuator and driving electronic. The model is implemented in Matlab, and a user interface enables performing variations of the parameters and boundaries for application-oriented design studies. The importance of considering the various actuator components is illustrated through a measurement analysis and exemplary design studies using the tool presented.