A Numerical Approach Based on Finite Element Method for the Wrinkling Analysis of Dielectric Elastomer Membranes

Abstract Dielectric elastomer (DE) actuators are deformable capacitors capable of a muscle-like actuation when charged. When subjected to voltage, DE membranes coated with compliant electrodes may form wrinkles due the Maxwell stress. Here, we develop numerical approach based on finite element method (FEM) predict morphology wrinkled mounted rigid frame. The includes two steps: (I) pre-buckling and (II) post-buckling. In step I, first buckling mode membrane is investigated by substituting stress thermal in built-in function FEM platform simulia abaqus. II, use this as an artificial geometric imperfection conduct post-buckling analysis. For purpose, equivalent model simulate mechanical behavior DEs. Based our approach, thickness distribution thinnest site voltage investigated. simulations reveal that crests/troughs sites around center corroborate these findings experimentally. Finally, successfully isosceles right triangle frame various sizes generated simultaneously. These results shed light fundamental understanding dielectric elastomers but also trigger new applications such programmable for optical devices or their prevention actuators.