Electrostatic clutch
First Claim
1. An electrostatic clutch for use in a robotic system, the clutch comprising:
- a first electrode comprising a conductive film,wherein a surface of the first electrode is coated with a dielectric material to cover the conductive film;
a first frame affixed to an end of the first electrode;
a second electrode comprising a conductive film,wherein a surface of the second electrode is aligned parallel to the surface of the first electrode,wherein the dielectric material separates the first electrode surface from the second electrode surface;
a second frame affixed to an end of the second electrode;
a tensioner connecting the first electrode to the second electrode,wherein the tensioner maintains an alignment of the first electrode and the second electrode, while allowing relative movement of the first and second electrodes in at least one direction parallel to the first electrode surface; and
a power source for applying an electric field across the first electrode and the second electrode to develop an electrostatic charge, causing the first electrode and the second electrode to exist in either an attractive state or a non-attractive state,wherein the tensioner allows the first electrode and the second electrode to move linearly relative to each other when the first electrode and the second electrode are in the non-attractive state,wherein the first frame and the second frame are coupled through the first electrode and the second electrode when in the attractive state.
1 Assignment
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Accused Products
Abstract
An electrostatic clutch is described comprising a plurality of micron-scale thickness electrodes, adjacent electrodes being separated by a thin film of dielectric material. A power source and controller apply a voltage across two electrodes, causing an electrostatic force to develop. When engaged, a force can be transferred through the clutch. A tensioning device maintains the alignment of the clutch when the electrodes are disengaged, but permits movement in at least one direction. In some embodiments, multiple clutches are connected to an output to provide variable force control and a broad range of torque input and output values. Moreover, the clutch can be used as an energy-recycling actuator that captures mechanical energy from negative work movements, and returns energy during positive work movements.
19 Citations
10 Claims
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1. An electrostatic clutch for use in a robotic system, the clutch comprising:
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a first electrode comprising a conductive film, wherein a surface of the first electrode is coated with a dielectric material to cover the conductive film; a first frame affixed to an end of the first electrode; a second electrode comprising a conductive film, wherein a surface of the second electrode is aligned parallel to the surface of the first electrode, wherein the dielectric material separates the first electrode surface from the second electrode surface; a second frame affixed to an end of the second electrode; a tensioner connecting the first electrode to the second electrode, wherein the tensioner maintains an alignment of the first electrode and the second electrode, while allowing relative movement of the first and second electrodes in at least one direction parallel to the first electrode surface; and a power source for applying an electric field across the first electrode and the second electrode to develop an electrostatic charge, causing the first electrode and the second electrode to exist in either an attractive state or a non-attractive state, wherein the tensioner allows the first electrode and the second electrode to move linearly relative to each other when the first electrode and the second electrode are in the non-attractive state, wherein the first frame and the second frame are coupled through the first electrode and the second electrode when in the attractive state. - View Dependent Claims (2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9, 10)
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Specification