Failure modeling of folded dielectric elastomer actuator

When subjected to voltage, the dielectric elastomer membrane reduces its thickness and expands its area under the resulting compressive force. This characteristic enables the dielectric elastomer actuators of different structures to be designed and fabricated. By employing the thermodynamic theory and research method proposed by Suo et al., an equilibrium equation of folded dielectric elastomer actuator with two generalized coordinates is established. The governing equations of failure models involving electromechanical instability, zero electric field, electrical breakdown, loss of tension, and rupture by stretch are also derived. The allowable areas of folded dielectric elastomer actuators are described. These results could provide a powerful guidance to the design and performance evaluation of the dielectric elastomer actuators.