Modeling and Optimizing IPMC Microgrippers

A FEA (Finite Element Analysis) model was used to determine the change in performance that results from varying the size and shape of IPMC (Ionic Polymer Metal Composite) fingers. Using Comsol Multiphysics and modeFRONTIER, these fingers were modeled and optimized for both force exerted and deflection. Using the Comsol model, we were able to determine the tip deflection and force output of many different IPMC fingers which were verified experimentally. Then, using modeFRONTIER we were able to optimize the fingers to determine the best shape and area depending on whether a high force or deflection was desired.

Name thesis:degree_name

Mechanical Engineering

Level thesis:degree_level

Masters

Discipline thesis:degree_discipline

Mechanical Engineering

Year

2015

Author dc:creator

• Simpson, Justin

Contributors dc:contributor

• Lumia, Ronald
• Khraishi, Tariq
• Heinrich, Juan

• Microgrippers
• IPMC
• Comsol
• modeFRONTIER

Language dc:language

English

Identifier

https://digitalrepository.unm.edu/me_etds/92

OAI identifier oai:identifier

oai:digitalrepository.unm.edu:me_etds-1091