A Computational Method for Materials Selection in a Hybrid Actuation System

摘要

Researchers at NASA-LaRC have developed a hybrid actuation system (HYBAS) that cooperatively employs an electroactive polymer and an electrostrictive single crystal. Experimental measurements and theoretical model predictions have been in good agreement thus far. To date, current research has only explored the usage of one electroactive polymer and one electrostrictive single crystal. A computational model was created based on this theoretical model. It implements the equations necessary to predict the actuator displacement profile and maximum displacement. Among the model variables are the actuator material properties. Changing the actuator materials has notable effects on actuator performance. As many viable materials as could be found were compiled into a database which can serve as a building block upon which a larger database can be built. Using these materials, a trade study was performed to determine which combination of materials demonstrates the best performance. As more electroactive materials are compiled, more extensive trade studies can be performed. Thus, the work in this paper will serve as a guideline for future HYBAS designs.