Authors:
Todd A. Gisby
1
;
Iain A. Anderson
1
;
Emilio P. Calius
2
and
Shane Xie
1
Affiliations:
1
The University of Auckland, New Zealand
;
2
Industrial Research Limited, New Zealand
Keyword(s):
Dielectric Elastomers, Artificial Muscles.
Related
Ontology
Subjects/Areas/Topics:
Artificial Limbs
;
Biomechanical Devices
;
Biomedical Engineering
;
Biomedical Instruments and Devices
;
Emerging Technologies
;
Telecommunications
;
Wireless and Mobile Technologies
;
Wireless Information Networks and Systems
Abstract:
Dielectric Elastomer (DE) actuators are compliant, ultra light-weight electromechanical devices that can be used as actuators, sensors, and power generators. While a relatively new technology, DE actuators can be produced using biocompatible materials and have already exhibited excellent performance in terms of strain, speed, pressure, specific energy density, and efficiency when compared to conventional actuation technologies and natural muscle. Further research is required in order for promising laboratory results to be translated into real-world applications, particularly in the areas of modelling and control, but the potential for multiple functions to be integrated into a single element is an exciting prospect for flexible smart structures and biodevices.