Thermo-electro-mechanical effects on nonlinear dynamics of smart dielectric elastomer minimum energy structures

Minimum energy structures made up of smart electro-active polymers (SEAPs) have attracted significant attention in the field of soft robotics and actuators due to their exceptional property of undergoing large deformations when subjected to electric fields. In general, temperature also plays a crucial role in modeling of SEAPs because it affects the mechanical, electrical, and thermal properties of the polymer. These properties, in turn, determine the performance of smart polymer-based devices. Motivated by these ongoing advancements, this study investigates the effects of temperature on the nonlinear dynamic behavior of a smart dielectric elastomer-based minimum energy structure (SDEMES) actuator. The governing dynamic equation of the actuator is derived using the standard Euler–Lagrange's equation. Through the utilization of time-evolution diagrams, Poincaré plots, and phase portraits, the study comprehensively evaluates the effects of temperature on the stability, periodicity, and resonant behavior of the actuator. The results highlight the significant influence of temperature on the stiffness of the elastomer within the SDEMES actuator, directly impacting its actuation performance. The frequency response of the actuator demonstrates a distinct increase in resonant frequency as the temperature rises. These findings shed light on the crucial role of temperature in shaping the stiffness and nonlinear dynamic behavior of smart dielectric elastomer minimum energy structures.