Dielectric Electroactive Polymers (DEAP) will undergo large deformations when subject to an electric field making
them an attractive material for use in novel actuator systems. There are many challenges with successful application and
design of DEAP actuators resulting from their inherent electromechanical coupling and non-linear material behavior. FE
modeling of the material behavior is a useful tool to better understand such systems and aid in the optimal design of
prototypes. These modeling efforts must account for the electromechanical coupling in order to accurately predict their
response to multiple loading conditions expected during real operating conditions.
This paper presents a Finite Element model of a dielectric elastomer undergoing out-of-plane, axisymmetric deformation.
The response of the elastomer was investigated while it was subjected to mechanical and electric fields and combined
electro-mechanical actuation. The compliant electrodes have a large effect on the mechanical behavior of the EAP which
needs to be taken into consideration while modeling the EAP as a system. The model is adapted to include the effect of
electrode stiffness on the mechanical response of the actuator. The model was developed using the commercial Finite
Element Modeling software, COMSOL. The results from the mechanical simulations are presented in the form of forcedisplacement
curves and are validated with comparisons to experimental results. Electromechanical simulations are
carried out and the stroke of the actuator for different electrode stiffness values is compared with experimental values
when the EAP is biased with a constant force.
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