Abstract: An electroactive device may include (1) an electroactive polymer element having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the electroactive polymer element comprising a nanovoided polymer material, (2) a primary electrode abutting the first surface of the electroactive polymer element, and (3) a secondary electrode abutting the second surface of the electroactive polymer element. The electroactive polymer element may be deformable from an initial state to a deformed state by application of an electrostatic field produced by a potential difference between the primary electrode and the secondary electrode. Various other devices, systems, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: A drop tower apparatus and method of use is provided. The drop tower apparatus includes a base, a frame, a top member, rails, a sled, a triggering system, and a test fixture. The frame extends from the base. The top member is disposed on the frame opposite the base and has a winch. The rails extend from the base to the top member and are disposed within the frame. The sled is configured to slide vertically along the length of the rails and is releasably connected to the winch of the top member. The test fixture is configured to receive a sample for testing. The winch of the top member raises the sled to a desired height, the sled is released at the desired height and slides along the rails resulting in an impact on a sample placed in the test fixture.

Abstract: An electroactive device may include (1) an electroactive polymer element having a first surface and a second surface opposite the first surface, the electroactive polymer element comprising a nanovoided polymer material, (2) a primary electrode abutting the first surface of the electroactive polymer element, and (3) a secondary electrode abutting the second surface of the electroactive polymer element. The electroactive polymer element may be deformable from an initial state to a deformed state by application of an electrostatic field produced by a potential difference between the primary electrode and the secondary electrode. Various other devices, systems, and methods are also disclosed.

Abstract: The present disclosure relates to micro-forming (e.g., micro-punches) devices and uses thereof. In particular, the present invention relates micro-forming devices and systems made using lithographic techniques, the use of such devices in fabricating a variety of materials.