TECHNOLOGY TRANSFER OPPORTUNITY --Asymmetric Dielectric Elastomer Composite Material: LAR-17696-1

Synopsis: NASA Langley Research Center in Hampton, VA solicits inquiries from companies interested in obtaining license rights to commercialize, manufacture and market the following technology. License rights may be issued on an exclusive or nonexclusive basis and may include specific fields of use. NASA provides no funding in conjunction with these potential licenses. THE TECHNOLOGY: Scientists at NASA Langley Research Center have developed an electronic active material that converts a voltage input to a mechanical force and mechanical displacement output. As compared to prior dielectric elastomer (DE) systems, the material has reduced electrode spacing, which lowers significantly the required operating voltage. In addition, the inclusion of a combination of conducting and/or non-conducting reinforcing fibers greatly enhances the strength of the material, without weight penalty. This dielectric elastomer (DE) composite material exhibits improved characteristics compared to currently available materials. By coating electrodes with uncured elastomer in liquid form, and thereafter assembling the electrode components, the electrodes can be woven into a fabric or fabricated in sheets. The result is a DE material that contracts upon activation, much like muscle tissue, rather than expand like conventional DE materials. Actuator forces are also greater than was possible previously. Moreover, the more precise control over electrode spacing leads to lower operating voltages. NASA is seeking to license this technology commercially. US Patent 8,704,423. To express interest in this opportunity, please respond to [email protected] with the title of this Technology Transfer Opportunity as listed in this FBO notice and your preferred contact information. Please also provide the nature of your interest in the technology along with a brief background of your company. For more information about licensing other NASA-developed technologies, please visit the NASA Technology Transfer Portal at http://technology.nasa.gov/ . These responses are provided to members of NASA Langley’s Office of Strategic Analysis and Business Development “OSACB” for the purpose of promoting public awareness of NASA-developed technology products, and conducting preliminary market research to determine public interest in and potential for future licensing opportunities. If direct licensing interest results from this posting, OSACB will follow the required formal licensing process of posting in the Federal Register. No follow-on procurement is expected to result from responses to this Notice.