Interlocking electro-bonded laminates

Abstract

Novel, structurally integrated, interlocking electrode elements are presented in this article. Electro-bonded laminates are structures that utilise the electrostatic force of attraction, generated between closely spaced electrode elements when subject to high potential difference (~2 kV), to control internal structural coupling. Control of internal connectivity allows for flexural stiffness modulation, with significant potential applications including vibration suppression and morphing applications. Existing electro-bonded laminate devices use parallel planar electrode elements. For this study, polyurethane core structures were cast with interlocking geometries based on a simple cosine wave form. By introducing this additional complexity to the electrodes, additional electrode–electrode contact area is available within a set external geometric profile, while also introducing directional resistance to sliding motion between the two surfaces. Interlocking electro-bonded laminate devices are demonstrated with electrostatic holding force capabilities similar to equivalent planar devices, with the added benefit of alignment and sliding restrictions provided by the directional elements. A novel enhancement to the existing electro-bonded laminate technology has thus been demonstrated.