Electroactive Polymer Biaxial Braid

Space and Naval Warfare Systems Center San Diego has developed an EAP structure that has decreased bulk and mass, and increased flexibility and local shape control. By braiding multiple EAP segments and controlling which segment current is applied, as well as the direction of the current, the movement and shape of the structure can be controlled. For example, applying a current in the same direction to two over-lapping segments will create a rigid area; whereas applying opposite current creates a hump or dip. By adjusting the direction, timing, and voltage to an EAP structure, a multitude of shapes and movements are possible. Benefits The structure can cooperatively generate forces on three dimensions, whereas individual strands can only exert force in one direction. The biaxial braids are light and can replace heavy machinery and parts. Shapes can be woven to create necessary structures depending on application (cylinder, sphere, blanket, box, etc.), which allows for snake-like movements to climb or swim. The technology enables scalability for large and small-scale devices and can be used in unconventional settings such as at deep levels of the sea.