A dielectric elastomer actuator with self-sensing capability

In this paper we present a dielectric elastomer actuator, which has the ability to sense the force acting on itwithout any additional sensing device. Basic physical b ehaviors of the dielectric elastomer are experimentallyinvestigated and it is noted that the impedance of the die lectric elastomer varies de pending on external forcesacting on it. Based on that concept, we propose the principle of a self-sensing actuator according to experimentalresult. In addition, a multi stacked actuator with self sensing capability is realized to validate its feasibility.Keywords: dielectric elastomer, self-sensing, actuator 1. INTRODUCTION During last decades, a great deal of researches on electroactive polymer actuators (EAPs) has been conductedwith remarkable progresses. Among them, dielectric elastomer actuator is one of the most prospectives because ofits large deformation and force, and cost eect iveness. 1 There are numerous dielectri c elastomers commerciallyavailable such as silicone, polyurethane, acrylic elastomer etc.