The present invention relates to electroactive polymers that are pre-strained
to improve conversion from electrical to mechanical energy. When a voltage is applied
to electrodes contacting a pre-strained polymer, the polymer deflects. This deflection
may be used to do mechanical work. The pre-strain improves the mechanical response
of an electroactive polymer. The present invention also relates to actuators including
an electroactive polymer and mechanical coupling to convert deflection of the polymer
into mechanical work. The present invention further relates to compliant electrodes
that conform to the shape of a polymer. The present invention provides methods
for fabricating electromechanical devices including one or more electroactive polymers.