DIELECTRIC ELASTOMER ACTUATOR: NEXT GENERATION FUNCTIONAL MATERIALS FOR INNOVATIVE ROBOTICS

Conventional actuators based on metal and ceramics face challenges in utilizing them for service and welfare robots, which should work cooperatively with human workers. Dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs) are a promising alternative to the conventional hard actuators, because they can realize motions which more resemble those of human muscles. Our research aimed at developing a DEA for applications in handling robotic arms and gripper hands for service/welfare robots. To this end, the elements of soft actuator ought to be fabricated and integrated into a large-scale array. Design of the actuator need to be optimized using computational dynamics and Finite Element Analysis (FEA). The application of DEA in robotics is expected to create a drive for the practical realization of reliable and functional DEAs. It could also promote commercialization and tap into the vast potential service/welfare robotic market.