Multilayer Dielectric Elastomer Actuator With Charge Distribution Layers
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Solution Overview
Problem
Conventional multilayer dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) face reduced voltage withstand and increased risk of premature breakdown due to charge spreading and field concentration at electrode edges, limiting their deformation and strain capabilities.
Innovation Solution
Incorporating stretchable charge distribution layers between polymer and electrode layers to control electric charge distribution, reducing field concentration and enhancing voltage withstand, while maintaining flexibility and electrical contact.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If multiple polymer layers are stacked between electrode layers to increase active material volume and force, then the volume of active material and force increase, but the voltage withstand is reduced due to field concentration at electrode edges
Solution Approach 1:
A charge distribution layer is introduced as an intermediary between the electrode layer and polymer layer. This intermediate layer has intermediate conductivity that allows it to redistribute electric charges away from the electrode edges, reducing field concentration and preventing premature breakdown while still allowing the multilayer structure to function
Solution Approach 2:
The charge distribution layer is positioned specifically at the edges of the electrode layers where field concentration occurs. This localized placement addresses the specific problem area without affecting the overall functionality of the multilayer DEA structure
2Reliability
If electrode layers are made of highly conductive material, then electrical contact is improved, but charge spreads into the air reducing insulation and increasing field concentration at edges
Solution Approach 1:
The charge distribution layer acts as a mediator between the highly conductive electrode and the polymer layer. It maintains good electrical contact while redistributing charges to prevent harmful field concentration at the edges, thus eliminating the negative effect without sacrificing electrical contact quality
Solution Approach 2:
The charge distribution layer changes the conductivity parameter in the system by introducing an intermediate conductivity value between the highly conductive electrode and the insulating polymer/air interface. This parameter change allows for controlled charge distribution that prevents field concentration
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
Enhances deformation and strain capabilities by increasing the maximal voltage that can be applied, thereby improving the performance and reliability of DEAs.
Implementation Method 1
the charges are also distributed in the air for a single layer DEA. Air becomes less insulate. It is assumed that this spreading of charge smooths the field concentration at edges of the electrode.
Implementation Method 2
an electrostatic pressure arising from Maxwell pressure acts between the electrodes and deforms the polymer layer 2
Implementation Method 3
an electrostatic pressure arising from Maxwell pressure acts between the electrodes and deforms the polymer layer 2
Implementation Method 4
Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEA) transform electric energy into mechanical work
Data Source
AI summary
A dielectric elastomer actuator comprising:a plurality of polymer layer;a plurality of stretchable electrode layers, each polymer layer being sandwiched between two electrode layers so as to control the electric field within the polymer layer;at least one stretchable charge distribution layer, each charge distribution layer being adjacent to one stretchable electrode layer and/or to one polymer layer.