PVDF core-free actuator for Braille displays: Design, fabrication process and testing

Thomas Levard, Paul J. Diglio, Sheng Guo Lu, Christopher D. Rahn, Q. M. Zhang

Research output: Chapter in Book/Report/Conference proceedingConference contribution

1 Scopus citations

Abstract

Refreshable Braille displays require many, small diameter actuators to move the pins. The electrostrictive P(VDF-TrFE-CFE) terpolymer can provide the high strain and actuation force under modest electric fields that are required of this application. In this paper, we develop core-free tubular actuators and integrate them into a 3 × 2 Braille cell. The films are solution cast, stretched to 6 μm thick, electroded, laminated into a bilayer, rolled into a 2 mm diameter tube, bonded, and provided with top and bottom contacts. Experimental testing of 17 actuators demonstrates significant strains (up to 4%). A novel Braille cell is designed and fabricated using six of these actuators.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Title of host publicationElectroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2011
DOIs
StatePublished - 2011
EventElectroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2011 - San Diego, CA, United States
Duration: Mar 7 2011Mar 10 2011

Publication series

NameProceedings of SPIE - The International Society for Optical Engineering
Volume7976
ISSN (Print)0277-786X

Other

OtherElectroactive Polymer Actuators and Devices (EAPAD) 2011
Country/TerritoryUnited States
CitySan Diego, CA
Period3/7/113/10/11

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Electronic, Optical and Magnetic Materials
  • Condensed Matter Physics
  • Computer Science Applications
  • Applied Mathematics
  • Electrical and Electronic Engineering

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