Electromechanical and dynamic analyses of tunable dielectric elastomer resonator

When used as resonators, dielectric elastomers are subjected to high frequencies and nonlinear oscillation. The present study is focused on a dielectric elastomer resonator whose dielectric membrane is subject to combined loads of tensile forces and voltages. When the loads are static, the resonator may reach a state of equilibrium. The stability and the natural frequency of the resonator with small-amplitude oscillation around the equilibrium state are analyzed. When a periodic voltage is applied, the device resonates at multiple frequencies of excitation. Pre-stretches and applied static voltages tune the natural frequency and modify the dynamic behavior of the resonator. The membrane may suffer loss of tension and electromechanical instability, causing the failure of the resonator. Safe operation range is identified for failure prevention while actuating the resonator. (c) 2012 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.