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Updated: Oct 27, 2025

Fabrication Process of Silicone-based Dielectric Elastomer Actuators
Published on: February 1, 2016
Electrostatic model of dielectric elastomer generator based on finite element.
Jianbo Cao1, Gangqiang Lu2, E Shiju3
1College of Information Science and Engineering, Jiaxing University, Jiaxing, 314001, Zhejiang, People's Republic of China. caojianbo2008@163.com.
This study investigates Maxwell stress in dielectric elastomer generators. Maxwell electrostatic force acts as both tensile and extrusion forces within the film, crucial for power generation.
Area of Science:
- Materials Science
- Electrical Engineering
- Physics
Background:
- Dielectric elastomer materials are utilized for power generation.
- Bias voltage application results in heterogeneous charges on the film, coupling Maxwell electrostatic force during power generation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the distribution of Maxwell stress in dielectric elastomer materials under an electric field.
- To determine the magnitude and direction of electrostatic forces.
Main Methods:
- Established an electrostatic model of a dielectric elastomer generator using COMSOL finite element simulation software.
- Conducted theoretical derivation and simulation to analyze electrostatic force distribution.
Main Results:
- Maxwell electrostatic force was found to be equivalent to tensile force along the film plane.
- Maxwell electrostatic force was also found to be equivalent to extrusion force perpendicular to the plane.
- The tensile and extrusion forces were determined to be of the same magnitude.
Conclusions:
- Maxwell electrostatic force plays a dual role in dielectric elastomer generators, acting as both tensile and extrusion forces.
- Understanding this force distribution is essential for optimizing dielectric elastomer generator performance.
- The study provides insights into the mechanical behavior of dielectric elastomers under electric fields.
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