Multi-Parameter Effects on Equi-Biaxially Pre-Stretched Dielectric Elastomer Actuators for Dynamic Design

Due to the strong nonlinearity and large deformation characteristics of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs), the dynamic performance design of their actuators faces the challenge of complex multi-parameter coupling. This paper establishes a unified parameterized dynamic equation based on analytical mechanics, focusing on the influence of electric field, excitation frequency, driving waveform, material properties, geometric dimensions, and pre-stretch ratio on their dynamic performance indicators. The study finds that the pre-stretch ratio, by changing the system’s potential energy and stiffness, not only directly affects the system’s dynamic performance. More importantly, throughout a complete driving voltage waveform cycle, the DEA exhibits alternating compression and expansion—a phenomenon rarely reported in existing studies. Accordingly, this study defines two new performance indicators: maximum stretch ratio (characterizing expansion) and minimum stretch ratio (characterizing compression). Based on this, the paper proposes a visualization design method using radar charts. By normalizing the performance indicators and plotting performance indicator radar charts, the interaction of various parameters can be intuitively presented, providing a new approach for the customized dynamic design of DEAs.