Methods of Electrostatic Clutch Sensorization and Performance Measurement
AssigneeESTAT Actuation, Inc.
InventorsStuart B. Diller, Kirby A. Witte, John D. Watkins, William S. Lesso
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Abstract
A method of operating an electrostatic clutch uses data obtained from a controller, a separate measurement circuit, or a sensor to adjust operation of the clutch or to instruct a user to perform maintenance. The data can indicate various conditions within the clutch cause by long-term use, continuous use, electrode wear, and various other factors. Further, sensors can be incorporated into clutch members or the electrodes of the clutch for data acquisition. A combination of measurements can be useful in some cases to provide performance metrics not available with single measurement.
Claims25
A method of measuring properties of an electroadhesive clutch having electrodes or clutch members and a dielectric, the method comprising:
- measuring data related to a property of the clutch;
- and
- adjusting clutch performance or use using the data.
-9. (canceled)
-12. (canceled)
A method of fabricating an electrostatic clutch having a clutch member comprising:
- incorporating a sensor or electrical component directly into the electrostatic clutch member.
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Dependencies are inferred from the claim text.