GRK 2430: Interactive Fiber-Rubber-Composites

The Research Training Group (RTG) mainly focusses on interactive fiber elastomer composites (IFEV), including structurally integrated smart actuator and sensor networks- to specifically adjust component stiffness and- to achieve steplessly adjustable, complex deformation patterns with almost unlimited freedom of deformation, long deformation paths, and high actuating power with sensorial feedbackas well as on in-depth scientific analyses of structural and material behaviour on multiple scales. Due to their high intrinsic deformation capacity, I-FEV have become a promising approach to generate controllably deformable components with specifically adjustable properties. As actuators, they can respond to changes in their environment (e.g. temperature and magnetic fields) and ensure precise as well as long-term stable functionalities by means of regulation and control circuits that are based on and linked to sensorial condition monitoring. However, these functionalities require innovative component designs and cross-scale modelling, simulation, integration into system conceptions, experi-mental research, and material developments. These I-FEV are a new class of materials offering new properties. For example, the development of I-FEV allows for the reversible and contactless adjustment of geometric degrees of deformation for mechanical components; thus, various environmental requirements can be met in a quick and precise manner. This advantage makes them suitable for numerous fields of application, such as mechanical engineering, vehicle construction, robotics, architecture, orthotics, and prosthetics. Potential applications include their use in systems for precise gripping and transportation processes, such as hand prostheses, automated lids, seals, shapeable membranes, and adaptive flaps for rotor blades of wind turbines as well as trim tabs for ground- and watercraft to effectively reduce flow separation. The objective of the proposed Research Training Group is the simulation-based development of smart material combinations and gradations for self-sufficient I-FEV with structurally integrated actuator and sensor networks to actively and locally adjust component stiffness. I-FEV are also suitable to achieve controlled complex deformation patterns. Of particular interest will be characteristics in terms of large deformation capabilities, high frequencies, and large actuating powers due to sensorial feedback in consideration of thermal and mechanical stress, while simultaneously reducing weight and enhancing compactness.