This paper describes a sensorless control algorithm for a positioning system based on a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). The voltage applied to the membrane and the resulting current can be measured during the actuation and used to estimate its displacement, i.e., to perform self-sensing. The estimated displacement can be then used as a feedback signal for a position control algorithm, which results in a compact device capable of operating in closed loop control without the need for additional electromechanical or optical transducers. In this work, a circular DEA preloaded with a bi-stable spring is used as a case of study to validate the proposed control architecture. A comparison of the closed loop performance achieved using an accurate laser displacement sensor for feedback is also provided to better assess the performance limitations of the overall sensorless scheme.

Closed loop control of dielectric elastomer actuators based on self-sensing displacement feedback / Rizzello, Gianluca; Naso, David; York, A.; Seelecke, S.. - In: SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES. - ISSN 0964-1726. - 25:3(2016). [10.1088/0964-1726/25/3/035034]

Closed loop control of dielectric elastomer actuators based on self-sensing displacement feedback

RIZZELLO, Gianluca;NASO, David;
2016-01-01

Abstract

This paper describes a sensorless control algorithm for a positioning system based on a dielectric elastomer actuator (DEA). The voltage applied to the membrane and the resulting current can be measured during the actuation and used to estimate its displacement, i.e., to perform self-sensing. The estimated displacement can be then used as a feedback signal for a position control algorithm, which results in a compact device capable of operating in closed loop control without the need for additional electromechanical or optical transducers. In this work, a circular DEA preloaded with a bi-stable spring is used as a case of study to validate the proposed control architecture. A comparison of the closed loop performance achieved using an accurate laser displacement sensor for feedback is also provided to better assess the performance limitations of the overall sensorless scheme.
2016
Closed loop control of dielectric elastomer actuators based on self-sensing displacement feedback / Rizzello, Gianluca; Naso, David; York, A.; Seelecke, S.. - In: SMART MATERIALS AND STRUCTURES. - ISSN 0964-1726. - 25:3(2016). [10.1088/0964-1726/25/3/035034]
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Utilizza questo identificativo per citare o creare un link a questo documento: https://hdl.handle.net/11589/74937
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