Rolled Electroactive Polymer Actuators

NASA's Langley Research Centre has invented technology that enables fine control of the tension of membrane structures. Originally developed for use with flexible, membrane-based space structures such as reflectors and solar collectors, the core of this technology is a cylindrical actuator referred to as a rolled electrostrictive polymer actuator. The actuator consists of a flat piece of electrostrictive polymer with electrodes attached to both sides so that a voltage can be applied across the material. To form the actuator, the flat piece of material is rolled, and end caps are applied when the material is tightly rolled into a pre-strained condition. When a voltage is applied, the actuator experiences displacement along its longest dimension.

Benefits

·         Suited for larger structures

Applications

·         Flexible space structures

·         Flexible solar panels

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