Electroactive membranes are dielectrics that when stretched induces a dipole moment, or a separation of charge, allowing polarization. The purpose of this project is to design and implement a mechanism to produce and measure high frequency sinusoidal fatigue on electroactive membranes. Multiple designs were considered and analyzed to obtain an optimal design to be utilized for this project. A crank slider mechanism was selected based on its ability to meet the objectives of ease of use and capability of varying stroke lengths and frequencies. The device was implemented on a MTS machine with a LVDT to measure the fatigue on electroactive membranes. This project aims to characterize the fatigue properties of electroactive membranes.

The selected design utilizes the crank slider four-bar to achieve the set objectives. The change in frequency is accomplished via input through a user interface that sends a signal to the motor controller to apply the specific voltage to the motor that will provide the needed angular velocity. The user has a choice of testing at frequencies between 0 Hz and 25 Hz. They also have a choice in the length of the stroke that displaces the membrane at 2.5 mm, 5 mm, or 7.5 mm. The crucial components include the DC motor, LVDT, motor controller, and power supply. The DC motor provides 0.72 Nm at 3500 rpm with a full load of 24V and 13A. The LVDT has a travel distance of 10 mm with an output of 20 to 4 mA. The data depicts that the mechanism produces sinusoidal motion and can track the load and displacement of the membrane.

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