Publications

Abstract not provided.

The shape control of thin, flexible structures has been studied primarily for edge-supported thin-plates. For applications such as electromagnetic wave reflectors, corner-supported configurations may prove more applicable since they allow for greater flexibility and larger achievable deflections when compared to edge-supported geometries under similar actuation conditions. Models of such structures provide insight for effective, realizable designs, enable design optimization, and provide a means of active shape control. Models for small deformations of corner-supported, thin laminates actuated by integrated piezoelectric actuators have been developed. However, membrane deflections expected for nominal actuation exceed those stipulated by linear, small deflection theories. In addition, large deflection models have been developed for membranes; however these models are not formulated for shape control. This paper extends a previously-developed linear model for a corner-supported thin, rectangular laminate to a more general large deflection model for a clamped-corner laminate composed of moment actuators and an array of actuating electrodes. First, a nonlinear model determining the deflected shape of a laminate given a distribution of actuation voltages is derived. Second, a technique is employed to formulate the model as a map between input voltage and deflection alone, making it suitable for shape control. Finally, comparisons of simulated deflections with measured deflections of a fabricated active laminate are investigated.

Abstract not provided.

Piezoelectric polymers based on polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) are of interest for large aperture space-based telescopes as adaptive or smart materials. Dimensional adjustments of adaptive polymer films depend on controlled charge deposition. Predicting their long-term performance requires a detailed understanding of the piezoelectric material features, expected to suffer due to space environmental degradation. Hence, the degradation and performance of PVDF and its copolymers under various stress environments expected in low Earth orbit has been reviewed and investigated. Various experiments were conducted to expose these polymers to elevated temperature, vacuum UV, {gamma}-radiation and atomic oxygen. The resulting degradative processes were evaluated. The overall materials performance is governed by a combination of chemical and physical degradation processes. Molecular changes are primarily induced via radiative damage, and physical damage from temperature and atomic oxygen exposure is evident as depoling, loss of orientation and surface erosion. The effects of combined vacuum UV radiation and atomic oxygen resulted in expected surface erosion and pitting rates that determine the lifetime of thin films. Interestingly, the piezo responsiveness in the underlying bulk material remained largely unchanged. This study has delivered a comprehensive framework for material properties and degradation sensitivities with variations in individual polymer performances clearly apparent. The results provide guidance for material selection, qualification, optimization strategies, feedback for manufacturing and processing, or alternative materials. Further material qualification should be conducted via experiments under actual space conditions.

Abstract not provided.

The effects of atomic oxygen (AO) and vacuum UV radiation simulating low Earth orbit conditions on two commercially available piezoelectric polymer films, poly(vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and poly(vinylidene fluoride-trifluoroethylene) P(VDF-TrFE), have been studied. Surface erosion and pattern development are significant for both polymers. Erosion yields were determined as 2.8 x 10{sup -24} cm{sup 3}/atom for PVDF and 2.5 x 10{sup -24} cm{sup 3}/atom for P(VDF-TrFE). The piezoelectric properties of the residual material of both polymers were largely unchanged after exposure, although a slight shift in the Curie transition of the P(VDF-TrFE) was observed. A lightly cross-linked network was formed in the copolymer presumably because of penetrating vacuum ultraviolet (VUV) radiation, while the homopolymer remained uncross-linked. These differences were attributed to varying degrees of crystallinity and potentially greater absorption, and hence damage, of VUV radiation in P(VDF-TrFE) compared with PVDF.

This report summarizes research into effects of electron gun control on piezoelectric polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) structures. The experimental apparatus specific to the electron gun control of this structure is detailed, and the equipment developed for the remote examination of the bimorph surface profile is outlined. Experiments conducted to determine the optimum electron beam characteristics for control are summarized. Clearer boundaries on the bimorphs control output capabilities were determined, as was the closed loop response. Further controllability analysis of the bimorph is outlined, and the results are examined. In this research, the bimorph response was tested through a matrix of control inputs of varying current, frequency, and amplitude. Experiments also studied the response to electron gun actuation of piezoelectric bimorph thin film covered with multiple spatial regions of control. Parameter ranges that yielded predictable control under certain circumstances were determined. Research has shown that electron gun control can be used to make macrocontrol and nanocontrol adjustments for PVDF structures. The control response and hysteresis are more linear for a small range of energy levels. Current levels needed for optimum control are established, and the generalized controllability of a PVDF bimorph structure is shown.

This paper describes an array of in-plane piezoelectric actuator segments laminated onto a comer-supported substrate to create a thin bimorph for reflector applications. An electric field distribution over the actuator segments causes the segments to expand or contract, thereby effecting plate deflection. To achieve a desired bimorph shape, the shape is first expressed as a two-dimensional series expansion. Then, using coefficients from the series expansion, an inverse problem is solved that determines the electric field distribution realizing the desired plate shape. A static example is presented where the desired deflection shape is a paraboloid. Copyright © 2004 by ASME.

Piezoelectric polymers based on PVDF are of interest for use in large aperture space-based telescopes similar to the James Web Space Telescope. Dimensional adjustments of polymer films depend on their piezoelectric properties with wireless (electron beam) shape control methods having been successfully demonstrated in the past. Such electron beam controls require a detailed understanding of the piezoelectric material responses. Similarly, space applications demand consistent, predictable, and reliable performance. While PVDF as a generic polymer type is a suitable piezoelectric material, it is also well known that fluorinated polymers are highly radiation-sensitive. Mechanical and other physical properties will suffer under various types of radiation (strong vacuum UV, {gamma}-, X-ray, e-beam, ion-beam) and atomic oxygen exposure. Likewise, extreme temperature fluctuations in space environments will result in annealing effects and cyclic stresses. While the radiative degradation chemistry of polymers is an established field there is little information available on the performance of piezoelectric features in PVDF with respect to their expected changes in these environments. Therefore, understanding such fundamental issues becomes mandatory for the design and deployment of satellite systems utilizing these materials/technology. We have investigated the degradation of PVDF and copolymers under a range of stress environments, and have studied the implications with regard to piezoelectrical properties necessary for reliable operation of thin films in space environments. Initial aging studies using {gamma}- and e-beam irradiation to explore material sensitivities for comparison with expected UV doses have shown complex material changes with lowered Curie temperatures, crystallinity, melting points and significant crosslinking, but little affect on piezoelectric d{sub 33} constants. Similar complexities of the aging processes have been observed in accelerated temperature environments. Overall, the results suggest that poling and polymer orientation are negatively affected by radiation effects and temperature. We have established fundamental correlations between chemical (structural) and physical (morphology) features of various PVDF copolymers and their piezoelectric properties. A frame work for material qualification issues and overall system survivability predictions in low earth orbit conditions has been developed. It will allow for improved material selection, feedback for manufacturing and processing technologies, avenues for material optimization/stabilization strategies and provide the necessary guidance on any alternative materials.

Abstract not provided.

Abstract not provided.