Step 3: Assembling the Parts

• Cut a piece of silicone coated fabric that is a little bit bigger than the actuator top part.
• Mix a small batch of EcoFlex and pour a little onto the surface. 

Uncured silicone is poured on

• Use a gloved finger to even out the liquid material over the whole surface - in a thickness of approx. 1 mm. 

A glover finger is used to even out the uncured silicone

• Place the actuator top part into the uncured silicone, with the open side facing down. Gently press it into contact with the material 

Actuator tops are placed into the uncured silicone

• Place a rectangular piece of wood (or something similar) atop the actuator top part to gently weigh it down thus ensuring contact with the strain limiting bottom during curing
• Cure the acutator by putting it in the oven for approx. 35 mins. at 80°C or leaving at room temp. for 4 hours - the latter will create the most strongest bond between the two parts
• Once the silicone has cured, cut of the excess fabric along the sides of the actuator with a pair of scissors or by using a ruler and an X-Acto knife