Reconfigurable electrically controlled shape morphing dielectric elastomer device

Abstract

An electrically-controllable shape morphing device comprising a multi-layer structure including a plurality of elastomer layers and a plurality of electrode layers formed between the plurality of elastomer layers. A geometry and/or size of at least one electrode in a first layer of the plurality of electrode layers is different than a geometry and/or size of at least one other electrode in a second layer of the plurality of electrode layers. Each of the plurality of electrode layers is individually addressable such that the electrode layer is configured to receive a variable voltage. The multi-layer structure is configured to change shape from a first shape to a second shape when a differential voltage is applied between electrodes in the plurality of electrode layers. The device may further comprise stiffening elements attached on or within elastomer layers to locally alter mechanical stiffness of the elastomer layers in at least one direction.