Electromechanical Actuation for Morphing Winglets

Microscale Thermal Transport and Electromechanical Microfluidic Actuation

Design Considerations for Electromechanical Actuation in Precision Motion Systems

In this paper the actuation system, often encountered high-precision motion systems, is studied. To find out the limitations of the actuation system, a integrated electromechanical model of the amplifier, actuator and mechanics is derived. This is done in a system’s theory-approach, so that amplifier feedback circuit design can be tuned using loop-shaping techniques. Stability analysis is carri...

A Hybrid Actuation System Demonstrating Significantly Enhanced Electromechanical Performance

A hybrid actuation system (HYBAS) utilizing advantages of a combination of electromechanical responses of an electroative polymer (EAP), an electrostrictive copolymer, and an electroactive ceramic single crystal, PZN-PT single crystal, has been developed. The system employs the contribution of the actuation elements cooperatively and exhibits a significantly enhanced electromechanical performan...

Actuation and Limits of Self-Aligned Electromechanical Switches

We demonstrate a large aspect ratio self-aligned silicon nanopillar electromechanical switch achieved with a single lithography step. This compact vertical device can be aggressively scaled by virtue of self-limiting oxidation. We describe a scaling relation that outlines the design space for this class of low voltage nanorelays. Summary of Research: We summarize: (a) the implications of electr...

Fuzzy Logic Control of a Smart Actuation System in a Morphing Wing