Vibration Experiment for a Conductive Structure with Curved Surface Using a Dielectric Elastomer Actuator with Electro Adhesion Technique

This study proposes a novel vibration excitation method using a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA) applied with an electro adhesion technique for conductive structures. Characteristics of mechanical structures are evaluated based on vibration experiments. For a flexible structure with curved surface, DEA excitation must be applied instead of traditional techniques (e.g., impulse hammers, heavy and rigid exciters, and lead zirconate titanate actuators). The DEA is characterized by high flexibility, stretchability, and fast response. Typically, adhesives are required to attach the DEA to the target structure for vibration excitation. Upon removal from the target, the DEA may be damaged, and reducing their reliability. The DEA proposed in this study can attach to a structure made of conductive materials using the electro adhesion technique. The vibration experiment for an aluminum cylindrical shell is conducted by applying the DEA excitation. The effectiveness of the proposed technique was evaluated based on vibration responses of the target structure.