TOTAL FORCE CALCULATION METHOD FOR ER EFFECT OF LIQUID CRYSTALLINE POLYMER ON ONE-SIDED PATTERNED ELECTRODE SYSTEM

Abstract

In most studies, a bilateral electrode system in which an electrorheological fluid (ERF) is filled between a pair of electrodes has been used for application of the ERF. Some troubles exist in this configuration of the electrodes, for example a short-circuit. We have, therefore, proposed "one-sided pattern electrodes", or "OSPE" that are arranged on the only one-side surface. In order to use efficiently them for any controllable systems, characteristics of the ERF on OSPE should be cleared and a design procedure for it will be needed. In this paper, we proposed a total force calculation method for the one-sided patterned electrode (OSPE) system in which a liquid crystalline polymer (type-A LCP) was used. Experimental results and simulation results are compared on a force transmission system using the OSPE. In the proposed simulation method, we improved a mathematical model of the characteristics of the type-A LCP, "two phased viscosity model". By using this model, we improved the accuracy of a simulation result. These simulation methods will enables to design an optimal electrode pattern.