The present invention provides a dielectric polymer actuator and an
inchworm robot using the same. The dielectric polymer actuator comprises
a laminate-type actuating part and a frame. The laminate-type actuating
part is provided with at least one dielectric polymer film which has
first and second surfaces positioned opposite to each other and a side
interposed between the first and second surfaces and which includes an
incompressible dielectric polymer. First and second compliant electrodes
are connected to the first and second surfaces. The frame is formed along
the side of the dielectric polymer film so that prestrain applied to the
dielectric polymer film is about zero. When a voltage is applied through
the first and second compliant electrodes to the dielectric polymer film,
the laminate-type actuating part is warped in any one direction of first
and second surface directions.