Polymer actuator
US7511402B2 · kind B2 · utility
11Cited by
5References
13Claims
0Family size
Assignee
Inventors
Key dates
| Filing date | Nov 25, 2003 |
| Grant date | Mar 31, 2009 |
| Priority date | — |
| Expiry date | Nov 14, 2025 |
Classification
- Technology area (CPC Y)Emerging Cross-Sectional Technologies
- CPC primaryY10S310/80
- WIPO fieldEngines, pumps, turbines
- WIPO sectorMechanical engineering
Abstract
A polymer actuator is provided. The polymer actuator includes a plurality of gel/electrode complexes arranged in an electrolytic solution, wherein the gel/electrode complex is composed of a polymeric hydrogel containing acidic or basic functional groups and electrodes placed in the polymeric hydrogel, such that it changes in volume upon application of a voltage across said electrodes. The polymer actuator expands and contracts in the linear direction without curved deformation. The polymer actuator is light in weight and is capable of control with a low voltage.
Source: USPTO / EPO open patent data. Objective bibliographic and citation counts.