Optimisation of hierarchical dielectric elastomer laminated composites

Hierarchical optimization of laminated fiber reinforced composites

1. Abstract The aim of this work is to perform hierarchical optimization [1] in laminated composite structures, considering simultaneously macroscopic and microscopic levels in the design of the structure and its material. In the macroscopic level, the optimization algorithm cares with orientations and fiber volume fractions of unidirectionally reinforced composite material layers. In the micro...

Dielectric Elastomers Conductive Elastomer Insulating Elastomer

Helical dielectric elastomer actuators

This paper presents a new type of contractile polymer-based electromechanical linear actuator. The device belongs to the class of dielectric elastomer actuators, which are typically capable of undergoing large deformations induced by an applied electric field. It is based on a novel helical configuration, suitable for the generation of electrically driven axial contractions and radial expansion...

Stacked Dielectric Elastomer

This paper presents a novel approach for active structures driven by soft dielectric electro-active polymers (EAPs), which can perform contractive displacements at external tensile load. The active structure is composed of an array of equal segments, where the dielectric films are arranged in a pile-up configuration. The proposed active structure has the capability of exhibiting uniaxial contra...

Self-stabilizing Dielectric Elastomer Generators

Dielectric Elastomer Generators (DEGs) are an emerging technology for the conversion of mechanical into electrical energy. Despite many advantageous characteristics, there are still issues to overcome, including the need for charging at every cycle to produce an electrical output. Self-priming Circuits (SPCs) are one possible solution, storing part of the electric energy output of one cycle to ...