Importance

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Abstract

An actuator device controlling the shape of a flexible surface having a quasi-continuum in a plurality of locations. The device includes a plurality of individual cells arranged in an array for contact with the flexible surface. The cells comprise a cell body having an upper film portion and a lower film portion and an open central portion. The upper film portion is in contact with the flexible surface. A post is mounted in the open central portion and fixedly attached to the upper film portion and the lower film portion, the post defining a vertical axis of movement. The upper and lower film portions have electrodes mounted thereon respectively, positioned on the face of the upper and lower film portions and facing each other. A central diaphragm has electrodes on its outer surfaces and an open central portion surrounding the post A power supply operably connected to the electrodes for causing selective cooperative electrostatic activation between them to move the post along the vertical axis to cause the upper film portion to move that portion of the flexible surface in which the upper film portion is in contact. In a preferred embodiment, the cell body has a circular cross section so that the post moves vertically upward and downward to raise or lower the portion of the flexible surface in contact with the upper film portion upon application of electrostatic potential between the electrodes.

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First Claim