Abstract: Dielectric elastomer or electroactive polymer film transducers configured to minimize high electrical field gradients that can lead to partial discharge and corona.

Abstract: The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to provide shutter and/or aperture control.

Abstract: The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to adjust an optical parameter of the optical device or system.

Abstract: Transducers employing electroactive polymer films are disclosed.

Abstract: Electroactive polymer constructions that convert electrical energy to mechanical energy and vice versa are disclosed. The subject transducers (actuators, generators, sensors or combinations thereof) share the requirement of a frame or fixture element used in preloading elastomeric film electrodes and dielectric polymer in a desired configuration. The structures are either integrally biased in a push-pull arrangement or preloaded/biased by another element.

Abstract: Electroactive polymer transducers are disclosed. They are biased in a manner that provides for increased force and/or stroke output, thereby offering improved work potential and power output capacity. The biasing may offer additional or alternate functional advantage in terms of matching transducer performance with a given application such as a normally-closed valve. The improved biasing (including increased output biasing) may utilize negative spring rate biasing and/or a combination of negative or zero-rate biasing with positive rate biasing to achieve the desired ends.

Abstract: The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive polymer actuators to stabilize the image produced by the device or system.

Abstract: The present invention provides optical systems, devices and methods which utilize one or more electroactive films to adjust an optical parameter of the optical device/system.

Abstract: Electroactive polymer transducers for sensory feedback applications are disclosed.

Abstract: Compliant/stretchable electroactive materials which exhibit self-healing/clearing properties are disclosed.

Abstract: Electroactive polymer transducers are disclosed. They are biased in a manner that provides for increased force and/or stroke output, thereby offering improved work potential and power output capacity. The biasing may offer additional or alternate functional advantage in terms of matching transducer performance with a given application such as a normally-closed valve. The improved biasing (including increased output biasing) may utilize negative spring rate biasing and/or a combination of negative or zero-rate biasing with positive rate biasing to achieve the desired ends.

Abstract: Devices employing electroactive polymer actuators are disclosed. The devices include pumps, valves, cameras (where electroactive polymer actuators control either one or both of zoom and focus), vibrators (for inclusion in cell phones, game console controls, etc.) and audio speakers. These devices advantageously incorporate the actuator configurations described. The devices generally incorporate a diaphragm-type actuation having a central section of material that is less flexible than adjacent material.

Abstract: The present the invention provides power supplies and circuitry for powering high-voltage devices.