Advancing dielectric elastomers in soft robotics: project BROADCAST's multidisciplinary approach

Research output: Contribution to book/Conference proceedings/Anthology/ReportConference contributionContributedpeer-review

Contributors

  • Mario De Lorenzo - , Chair of Microsystems (Author)
  • Makara Lay - , Leibniz-Institute for New Materials (Author)
  • Lingyu Liu - , Leibniz-Institute for New Materials (Author)
  • Thomas Kister - , Leibniz-Institute for New Materials (Author)
  • Uwe Marschner - , Chair of Microsystems (Author)
  • Tobias Kraus - , Leibniz-Institute for New Materials, Saarland University (Author)
  • Andreas Richter - , Chair of Microsystems (Author)
  • E. F.Markus Henke - , Chair of Microsystems (Author)

Abstract

Project BROADCAST will deliver a new class of powerful soft, biomimetic systems that can interact with their environment in a save, bio-inspired way. The approach is based on major advances in the production technology of dielectric elastomers (DE) circuitry, new soft electronic materials, and new approaches in signal processing. BROADCAST investigates multi-functional DEs that drive robotic structures based on bio-inspired electro-mechanical control strategies such as central pattern generators, autonomous peristalsis, locomotion and similar others. This requires new materials for flexible electrodes and sensors that provide curtailed electrical and electro-mechanical properties, such as Young's modulus, conductivity and piezoresistivity. These materials will provide new features in robotics such as sensorless system where the DEA will act both as an actuator and a sensor by providing continuous feedback in real-time.

Details

Original languageEnglish
Title of host publicationElectroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) XXVI
EditorsJohn D. Madden
PublisherSPIE - The international society for optics and photonics
ISBN (electronic)9781510671966
Publication statusPublished - 2024
Peer-reviewedYes

Publication series

SeriesProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume12945
ISSN0277-786X

Conference

TitleElectroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices XXVI
Abbreviated titleEAPAD 2024
Conference number26
Duration25 - 27 March 2024
LocationHilton Long Beach Hotel
CityLong Beach
CountryUnited States of America

External IDs

ORCID /0000-0002-8588-9755/work/213147638

Keywords

Keywords

  • biomimetic, carbon black, conductivity, Dielectic elastomer actuator, electrodes, piezoresistivity, soft robot, Young's modulus