DEVELOPMENT OF ADVANCED ELECTRO-RHEOLOGICAL FLUIDS

Objective

Various mathematical models were developed covering the main features of electro-rheological (ER) fluids. The models covered the behaviour of ER fluid when subjected to an electric field from both a microscopic and macroscopic point of view. Additional models were developed covering electrical phenomena, especially those detailing edge effects and field distribution between electrodes.

These models were underpinned by extensive data collected from a range of proprietary equipment as well as equipment especially developed for the project. Basic data was used subsequently for the design of hardware and the development of improved fluids.

A range of improved fluids were developed based on inorganic and polymeric materials. During the course of the project alternative ER fluids developed by other suppliers became available and were assessed in the light of existing materials.

Hardware developed included anti-vibration mounts, linear dampers, tactile arrays, and acoustic devices. These devices were augmented by power supplies and appropriate control technologies.
Smart materials and devices offer considerable advantages over conventional techniques and the application of this technology has widescale implications throughout all industrial sectors. The most promising of the smart materials are electro-rheological fluids (ER). The purpose of the program is to conduct research into ER fluids, both existing and improved, and to build advanced prototype devices based on these fluids. The program includes evaluation of the prototypes with the intention of subsequent commercial development and manufacture.

Two overall objectives can be defined; technical and industrial. The overall technical objective is to be able to predict and measure the behaviour of ER fluids. This involves development of mathematical models of fluids under different conditions and the testing of fluids under these conditions. The overall industrial objective is to produce ER based prototype devices with wide applications and which are simple,controllable, and give better performance than conventional equivalents. Work will be directed towards applications in robotics,machine tools,automotive,and flexible manufacture.

Fields of science

• engineering and technology › electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering › electronic engineering › robotics
• natural sciences › mathematics › applied mathematics › mathematical model

Programme(s)

• FP3-BRITE/EURAM 2 - Specific programme (EEC) of research and technological development in the field of industrial and materials technologies, 1990-1994

Topic(s)

• 2.1.2 - Design methodologies for complex components

Call for proposal

Data not available

Funding Scheme

CSC - Cost-sharing contracts

Coordinator

Advanced Fluid Systems Ltd

Address

10-14 Pensbury Industrial Estate Pensbury Street
SW8 4TJ London
United Kingdom

Participants (4)

Metzeler Gimetall AG

Germany

Address

Gneisenaustraße 15
80992 München

TECHNISCHE HOCHSCHULE DARMSTADT

Germany

Address

Petersenstraße 30
64287 Darmstadt

Thomson Sintra SA

France

Address

525 Route Des Dolines Sophia Antipolis
06561 Valbonne

University of Hull

United Kingdom

Address

Cottingham Road
HU6 7RX Hull