#  Step 3: Attach Copper Tape 

 



 ##  

  expand\_more  

 
  

 

In this step, short pieces of copper tape are attached on opposing sides of the active layer. The copper tape is folded over to allow attachment a high voltage amplifier later.

#### Fixing mistakes from Step 2

If some stray carbon grease found its way outside the active area during [Step 2](/book/dea-step-2), simply choose that direction to attach the copper tape. Draw an imaginary line from the active area through the mistake and attach a strip of copper tape where that line intersects with the frame. A line of carbon grease will be painted right over the mistake in [Step 4](/book/dea-step-4), covering it up.

####  

Sort   ![cut_copper_tape.jpg](/sites/g/files/omnuum4601/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/sorotoolkit/files/cut_copper_tape.jpg?itok=A3gt_QKs) 

 



- Cut a strip of copper tape around 4" in length.
- Cut the strip in half lengthwise producing two thin strips.
- The width of the copper tape will depend on the size of your actuator. In this example, 1/2" wide copper tape is a good size.



   ![attach_copper.png](/sites/g/files/omnuum4601/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/sorotoolkit/files/attach_copper.png?itok=a7U210eh) 

 



- Attach one of the strips to the side of the actuator where the membrane lies flat on the frame (the topside).
- The copper tape will stick to the VHB so no glue needs to be used.
- Start by attaching the copper strip so that it extends into the membrane area inside the frame.



   ![fold_copper.png](/sites/g/files/omnuum4601/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/sorotoolkit/files/fold_copper.png?itok=y3_RGJaN) 

 



- Then fold the copper strip and attach the other end to the underside of the actuator frame (not the membrane area inside the frame).
- **Do not pull on the membrane** when attaching the copper strips.





 



 

   ![make_foot.png](/sites/g/files/omnuum4601/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/sorotoolkit/files/make_foot.png?itok=z9TrHnO1) 

 



- Attach the other strip to the underside of the actuator.
- To easily attach the strip over the lip of the frame, create a "foot" with the end of the copper tape.





 



- This second strip **must be connected on the opposite side from the first strip**.
- If it is not, when the active area is connected to the copper strips with carbon grease, the connected area will be active (which we don't want).



   ![copper_tape_attached.jpg](/sites/g/files/omnuum4601/files/styles/hwp_1_1__720x720_scale/public/sorotoolkit/files/copper_tape_attached.jpg?itok=JAj_G_0B) 

 



- The actuator should look like the image on the left when both copper strips are attached.







### Bibliography

Keplinger et al. (2012) [Harnessing snap-through instability in soft dielectrics to achieve giant voltage-triggered deformation.](/publications/harnessing-snap-through-instability-soft-dielectrics-achieve-giant-voltage)

Keplinger et al. (2013) [Stretchable, transparent, ionic conductors.](/publications/stretchable-transparent-ionic-conductors)

Koh et al. (2009) [Maximal energy that can be converted by a dielectric elastomer generator.](/publications/maximal-energy-can-be-converted-dielectric-elastomer-generator)

Wissler and Mazza (2007) [Mechanical behavior of an acrylic elastomer used in dielectric elastomer actuators.](/publications/mechanical-behavior-acrylic-elastomer-used-dielectric-elastomer-actuators)

Pelrine et al. (2001) [Dielectric elastomers: generator mode fundamentals and applications.](/publications/dielectric-elastomers-generator-mode-fundamental-and-applications)

Pelrine et al. (2000) [High-Speed Electrically Actuated Elastomers with Strain Greater Than 100%.](https://softroboticstoolkit.com/sorotoolkit/publications/high-speed-electrically-actuated-elastomers-strain-greater-100)

Röntgen WC. (1880) [Ueber die durch Electricität bewirkten Form—und Volumenänderungen von dielectrischen Körpern.](/publications/ueber-die-durch-electricitat-bewirkten-form%E2%80%94und-volumenanderungen-von)

Suo, Zhigang (2010) [Theory of dielectric elastomers.](/publications/theory-dielectric-elastomers)

### Contributors

Philipp Rothemund