Electromechanical behavior of fiber-reinforced cylindrical dielectric elastomer actuator

A tubular dielectric elastomer, reinforced by helical fibers, provides in-plane and out of plane deformations and can be used as a torsional actuator. Previous studies have shown that voltage induced deformation in fiber-reinforced DE (dielectric elastomers) torsional actuators can be controlled by features of the considered system such as material parameters and mechanical loading. In this study we focused on the effect of fiber orientation on the voltage-induced deformation. Based on the assumption of uniform deformation and inextensible fibers, a phenomenological model was constructed. The model was devised by employing an energy method and analyzed numerically. It was found that the deformation can be observed in two different stages: bulged and unbulged state. Transition from unbulged to bulged state and jumping to larger deformation happens in a critical voltage which is independent of the fibers angle. On the other hand, the amount of deformation in longitudinal and Hoop directions can be manipulated by the fiber angle. Deformation along the fibers are constrained significantly. Other results made it clear that based on working voltage the possible largest twist angle can vary. Reported results can aid the design and use of fiber-reinforced DE actuators in known fields.

Keywords:

Dielectric elastomer , Fiber reinforced , Torsional actuator