Currently, advanced countries such as the US and the UK are researching laser-based weapons and communication systems. The application of Fast Steering Mirror (FSM) is crucial in laser systems to control internal optical paths and compensate for disturbances, including atmospheric fluctuations and mechanical vibrations. Additionally, research is underway to enhance image clarity in surveillance and reconnaissance systems, such as Electro-Optical/Infrared (EO/IR) systems, by applying FSM technology. Consequently, the demand for FSMs is rising, necessitating the development of small, lightweight, and high-performance solutions. In this study, we designed a compact and lightweight FSM with a diameter of 25 mm, and its performance was validated through rigorous testing. Furthermore, we developed a piezoelectric actuator using single crystal piezoelectric material to ensure a wide operating bandwidth and rapid response speed for the FSM. Before manufacturing the designed FSM, we conducted modeling and simulation (M&S) to analyze its performance and confirm that it met the required specifications. Subsequently, a prototype of the FSM was produced, and its operating range, bandwidth, and accuracy were evaluated through performance tests.

This study examines how two key design parameters—the pre-stretch ratio and the thickness of the carbon nanotube (CNT) electrode—affect the actuation performance of dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs). DEA samples are created with varying pre-stretch levels (50% and 125%) and different amounts of CNT spray coating (4 and 8 mg), and their threshold voltages and areal strains are quantitatively assessed. The experimental results indicate that higher pre-stretch ratios result in lower threshold voltages and greater areal deformations, while increased CNT thickness typically reduces actuator deformation due to enhanced mechanical stiffness. The combination of a high pre-stretch ratio and low CNT loading demonstrates improved electro-mechanical responsiveness at moderate voltages. These findings underscore the interconnected effects of structural and electrode design on DEA performance, offering practical design guidelines for optimizing soft actuator systems. This research lays a solid foundation for future applications of DEAs in haptic interfaces, wearable actuators, and soft robotics.