Research Projects

Magneto-rheological elastomers (MREs) are widely used in soft and bio-inspired robotics as membrane structures. However, predicting their behavior is challenging due to their large deformations and nonlinear response. Different thermal conditions and applications require careful study to ensure efficient working. A computationally efficient nonlinear model can help predict coupled response. This work aims to develop a geometrical nonlinear model based on large deformation theory, incorporating coupled magneto-thermo-elastic relations of MREs. A consistent continuum-mechanics approach will be used to develop governing equations, obtaining differential equations using the principle of virtual work and Lagrangian formulation. Finite element methods will be employed to solve the system of differential equations, focusing on convergence properties. Experimental analysis will be conducted on MREs to validate the effectiveness of the developed model. Experiments and models will be used to investigate deformation and snap-through under elevated temperatures. A parametric study will be conducted to optimize MRE design by controlling/reversing instability effects on device operation. The study aims to address the lack of attention on the impacts of soft smart/active materials like magnetorheological elastomers and dielectric elastomers, enabling their use in various applications. Overall, this research could improve the design of actuators and sensors using smart materials.