Patent attributes
A dielectric elastomer motor includes an artificial muscle and a conversion mechanism cooperating with the artificial muscle. The artificial muscle includes a dielectric elastomer film or layer having a first surface and a second surface opposite to the first surface. First and second electrodes are attached to the first surface and the second surface of the dielectric elastomer film, respectively. First and second bases are attached to the dielectric elastomer so as to be spaced apart from each other. The first base and the second base are capable of reciprocation relative to each other upon change in size of the dielectric elastomer. The conversion mechanism converts the reciprocation of the bases to pivotal or rotational movement. The dielectric elastomer receives voltage application with a predetermined timing via the first and the second electrodes.