Modeling the dynamic behavior of electrostrictive actuators

This paper examines the dynamic response of electrostrictive rod actuators. A non-linear constitutive model for electrostrictors is used to obtain periodic solutions for the actuator's displacement and polarization. The method accounts for both inertial forces and a non-homogeneous stress distribution in the device. Results of the analysis predict displacement distortion and power requirements for the actuators as a function of excitation frequency. Resonance behavior of the actuator and the effect of electro-mechanical coupling are investigated. Voltage control parameters for the actuators are studied to determine the optimum control scheme for minimizing distortion of the displacement output.