Master/slave electroactive polymer systems

Details Master/slave electroactive polymer systems Master/slave electroactive polymer systems

2005-04-05

2005-04-05

Dougherty, Thomas M. (Department: 2834)

Electrical generator or motor structure

Non-dynamoelectric

Piezoelectric elements and devices

C310S317000, C310S800000

Reexamination Certificate

active

06876135

ABSTRACT:
The present invention relates to improved devices, systems and methods that convert between electrical and mechanical energy. An electroactive polymer transducer converts between electrical and mechanical energy. An active area is a portion of an electroactive polymer transducer. The active area comprises a portion of an electroactive polymer and at least two electrodes that provide or receive electrical energy to or from the portion. The present invention relates to transducers and devices comprising multiple active areas that are in electrically communication. More specifically, the present invention relates to master/slave arrangements for multiple active areas disposed on one or more electroactive polymers. In a master/slave arrangement, a first active area deflects (a ‘master’), and a second active area reacts (a ‘slave’). Communication electronics in electrical communication with electrodes for the first active area and in electrical communication with electrodes for the second active area transfer electrical energy between the two active areas.

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