Abstract:

Magnetic hybrid composites have the peculiarity to change their mechanical properties when influenced by a magnetic field. This special characteristic arouses interest of engineers and scientists in order to study their unusual properties and develop novel applications as actuators, sensor systems and control mechanisms in technical systems. Magnetosensitive elastomers (MSE) consist of a polymer matrix which is composed of silicone rubber and silicone oil, with incorporated magnetic particles. These materials can be used for various applications due to their special mechanical behaviour. The considerations on the smart material start with the comparison of magneto-mechanical properties of different compositions followed by the development of shape adaptation due to its field-induced plasticity and the simulation of the mechanical behaviour. The paper considers the mechanical properties of a new actuator system based on MSE for end-effector applications in form-fit grippers.

Keywords: magnetic hybrid material; magneto-sensitive elastomer; anoparticle; field-induced plasticity; stiffness change; finite element simulation.