Analysis of Dielectric Electro Active Polymer actuator and its high voltage driving circuits

Abstract

Actuators based on dielectric elastomers have promising applications in artificial muscles, space robotics, mechatronics, micro-air vehicles, pneumatic and electric automation technology, heating valves, loud speakers, tissue engineering, surgical tools, wind turbine flaps, toys, rotary motors, and grippers for material handling, etc. This paper focuses on the application of Dielectric Electro Active Polymer (DEAP) technology as an actuation mechanism for different applications. The DEAP material requires very high voltage (~2.5 kV DC) to fully utilize it as an actuator. In this paper the DEAP actuator is analyzed in detail and the actuator structures, for the wind turbine flap and the heating valve applications are shown. Different high voltage switch mode power supply topologies for driving the DEAP actuator are discussed. The simulation and experimental results are discussed.