A Buckling Dielectric Elastomer Actuator

Opportunity

The development of DEA unlocks significant technological and market opportunities across various sectors. Technologically, the actuator’s high responsiveness makes it suitable for real-time applications. Its versatility, free from rigid frames, expands design possibilities, especially in creating flexible devices. The integration of the PEGDA-CN9021 co-polymer enhances performance, ensuring stability, improved strain response and minimised equilibrium drift. 

From a market perspective, DEA is poised to reshape the landscape of haptic feedback devices. With the growth of virtual reality (VR), augmented reality (AR) and gaming, the demand for responsive haptic feedback increases. Furthermore, as the electronics industry moves toward foldable and flexible displays, the DEA can play a pivotal role in dynamic, adaptive screens. The aerospace and automotive sectors could also benefit from the actuator's adaptability, especially in complex control systems.  

In the medical field, DEA holds great potential for applications requiring precision, such as robotic surgical systems. The rising prominence of soft robotics, which emulate intricate biological structures, further underscore DEA’s importance. Its adaptability extends to multi-faceted operations, spanning patient care to complex search and rescue endeavours. 

Technology 

DEA uses electroactive polymers that change shape in response to an electric field. It consists of a dielectric elastomer placed between two compliant electrodes. When voltage is applied, the elastomer expands, and if pre-stretched, buckling occurs, resulting in significant mechanical strains. The integration of the PEGDA-CN9021 co-polymer bolsters performance and stability, reducing equilibrium drift. 

Compared to other technologies, DEA offers distinct advantages, including: 

• Lightweight and silent: DEAs are both featherweight and noiseless, ideal where weight or sound matters; 
• High responsiveness: Quick actuation makes it apt for real-time operations; 
• Versatility: Design freedom without the need for rigid parts; 
• Energy efficiency: Consumes less power, indicating increased energy efficiency; and 
• Durability: Enhanced lifespan and resilience with the incorporation of PEGDA-CN9021. 

Figure 1: Buckling Dielectric Elastomer Actuator.

Applications & Advantages

Applications:

Main application areas include virtual reality, gaming, automotive, aerospace, healthcare and mobile devices. 

Advantages:

• Makes digital experiences feel more "real". 
• Increases accuracy in tasks like remote surgeries or piloting. 
• Provides non-intrusive alerts in sectors like automotive and aerospace. 
• Accelerates adaptation to new devices or platforms. 
• Bridges the sensory gap between digital and physical interactions.