Steven Frehn

Steven Frehn

Palmdale , CA
Age 18

Andrew Deagon

Palmdale , CA
Age 18

Dielectric Electroactive Polymers (EAP) is an emerging technology with high potential in a variety of applications. Discoveries were made in the area of shape deformation that Dielectric EAPs experience when electrically activated. Existing EAP actuators were analyzed and problems of wasted force and mechanical energy were identified. It was then discovered that for optimum energy efficiency, the best shape was designed that is capable of not only utilizing contraction, but also into one linear direction. This design is extremely useful in that it is able to mimic the motion and qualities of biological muscles and shows promise in industrial applications.