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Exploration of an Electroactive Polymer as an Actuator for Microrobotics

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  01 February 2011

C. Bielmeier  and
W. Walter
C. Bielmeier
Affiliation:
RIT Mechanical Engineering Robotics Laboratory, Rochester Institute of Technology, 76 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, New York 14623
W. Walter
Affiliation:
RIT Mechanical Engineering Robotics Laboratory, Rochester Institute of Technology, 76 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, New York 14623
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Abstract

The development of lightweight low power consumption actuators is critical to the development of micro-robotics. Electroactive Polymers (EAP), i.e. Nafion N-117, meet these requirements. In the actuation of an EAP, the current does not remain constant over time. The development of a circuit model of current draw over time to best predict a current dynamic has been explored. While the material mimics a parallel plate capacitor, it has been found that capacitance plays no role in achieving steady state current levels. This development is critical to understanding and developing the material as an actuator.

Type
Research Article
Information
MRS Online Proceedings Library (OPL) , Volume 785: Symposium D – Materials and Devices for Smart Systems , 2003 , D8.5
Copyright
Copyright © Materials Research Society 2004

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References

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