Abstract
Dielectric elastomer actuators show suitable properties to be utilized for dynamic applications, e.g. speakers, shakers and pumps, with possible benefits to existing conventional systems. In this work a method to predict the performance of dynamically actuated dielectric-elastomer roll-actuators (DERA) depending on both, material and design parameters is presented. It incorporates in combination analytical computation, FEM, as well as electromechanical networks and considers a large variety of material configurations with a multitude of constructional degrees of freedom. DERA in push-configuration exhibit a distinct modal behavior in axial direction depending on the boundary conditions and loading at the actuators end terminals, which is described sufficiently by a one-dimensional longitudinal waveguide model. Several DERA were designed, manufactured and tested. The experimental studies were in good agreement with the made predictions. They allowed for further refinement regarding interface circuits and model updating, such as the estimation of inaccessible parameters (e. g. damping coefficients). The presented model allows for extensive parameter studies and the development of tailor-made actuators for given application in a very time efficient manner.
