A Review of Cooperative Actuator and Sensor Systems Based on Dielectric Elastomer Transducers

This paper presents an overview of cooperative actuator and sensor systems based on dielectric elastomer (DE) transducers. A DE consists of a flexible capacitor made of a thin layer of soft dielectric material (e.g., acrylic, silicone) surrounded with a compliant electrode, which is able to work as an actuator or as a sensor. Features such as large deformation, high compliance, flexibility, energy efficiency, lightweight, self-sensing, and low cost make DE technology particularly attractive for the realization of mechatronic systems that are capable of performance not achievable with alternative technologies. If several DEs are arranged in an array-like configuration, new concepts of cooperative actuator/sensor systems can be enabled, in which novel applications and features are made possible by the synergistic operations among nearby elements. The goal of this paper is to review recent advances in the area of cooperative DE systems technology. After summarizing the basic operating principle of DE transducers, several applications of cooperative DE actuators and sensors from the recent literature are discussed, ranging from haptic interfaces and bio-inspired robots to micro-scale devices and tactile sensors. Finally, challenges and perspectives for the future development of cooperative DE systems are discussed.

Automated summary

This paper provides an overview of cooperative actuator and sensor systems based on dielectric elastomer (DE) transducers. DEs, made of a flexible capacitor and a compliant electrode, can function as actuators or sensors. The unique features of DE technology, such as large deformation, high compliance, flexibility, energy efficiency, and low cost, make it attractive for mechatronic systems. By arranging several DEs in an array-like configuration, new applications and features can be achieved through synergistic operations. The paper reviews recent advances, discusses applications, and explores challenges and perspectives for future development of cooperative DE systems.