Dielectric elastomer actuators for tuneable optics

Dielectric elastomers are a variety of electroactive polymers, which are a new class of actuation materials that change size and shape in response to an electrical stimulation. Dielectric elastomer actuators offer high strains, high energy output, lightweight, silent operation and low cost. They are being studied for many applications such as artificial muscles, robotic systems and haptic displays. This paper deals with optical applications of dielectric elastomer actuators and introduces the ongoing research at Queen Mary University of London on variable focus lenses and tuneable colour displays.