Electroactive apparatus and methods

US6847155B2 · kind B2 · utility

Assignee

• Clemson University · US

Inventors

• Robert W. Schwartz · New York, US
• Manoj Narayanan · Mentor, US

Key dates

• Filing date: Mar 27, 2002
• Grant date: Jan 25, 2005
• Expiry date: Oct 29, 2022

Classification

• Technology area (CPC Y): Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
• CPC primary: Y10S310/80

Abstract

High performance electromechanical devices suitable for a wide range of applications are described. The electroactive devices are capable of operating in a manner that offers enhanced mechanical displacement responses and increased load-bearing capabilities. In one embodiment, the device is capable of providing a significantly increased level of free displacement. The electroactive devices include an electroactive composite which includes at least one electroactive material that may comprise an electrostrictive or a piezoelectric material and a tensioning device which is adapted for inducing a mechanical pre-load to the electroactive composite structure. The tensioning device exerts a mechanical pre-load upon the electroactive material which alters stress profile, increases mechanical energy and increases stored elastic energy of the electroactive devices.