Electrostatic/pneumatic actuators for active surfaces
US6288472A · kind A · utility
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | May 17, 2000 |
| Grant date | Sep 11, 2001 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | May 17, 2020 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY02T50/10
- WIPO fieldMechanical elements
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
An actuator device providing an active surface. The actuator has an electrostatic electrode for electrostatic cooperative action with an opposing electrostatic electrode. The cover has at least one second electrostatic electrode for cooperative electrostatic activation. The cover also has an outer surface forming the active surface. A power supply cause the cooperative electrostatic activation. A quantity of fluid is contained within the cavity for pneumatically defining active surface conditions during cooperative electrostatic actuation. The electrostatic electrodes may comprise a plurality of electrostatic electrodes arranged in a pattern to cause a predetermined change in the active surface. Various patterns may be used, such as bands, patches and regions. Also provided is control electronics.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.