1,211 results on '"soft actuator"'
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2. Ultralong Stretchable Soft Actuator (US2A): Design, Modeling and Application
- Author
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Wang, Wenbiao, Zhu, Yunfei, Cai, Shibo, and Bao, Guanjun
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- 2023
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3. Ultralong Stretchable Soft Actuator (US2A): Design, Modeling and Application
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Wenbiao Wang, Yunfei Zhu, Shibo Cai, and Guanjun Bao
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Soft robotics ,Soft actuator ,Pneumatic artificial muscle ,Modeling ,Ocean engineering ,TC1501-1800 ,Mechanical engineering and machinery ,TJ1-1570 - Abstract
Abstract Actuator plays a significant role in soft robotics. This paper proposed an ultralong stretchable soft actuator (US2A) with a variable and sizeable maximum elongation. The US2A is composed of a silicone rubber tube and a bellows woven sleeve. The maximal extension can be conveniently regulated by just adjusting the wrinkles’ initial angle of the bellows woven sleeve. The kinematics of US2A could be obtained by geometrically analyzing the structure of the bellows woven sleeve when the silicone rubber tube is inflated. Based on the principle of virtual work, the actuating models have been established: the pressure-elongation model and the pressure-force model. These models reflect the influence of the silicone tube’s shell thickness and material properties on the pneumatic muscle’s performance, which facilitates the optimal design of US2A for various working conditions. The experimental results showed that the maximum elongation of the US2A prototype is 257%, and the effective elongation could be variably regulated in the range of 0 and 257%. The proposed models were also verified by pressure-elongation and pressure-force experiments, with an average error of 5% and 2.5%, respectively. Finally, based on the US2A, we designed a pneumatic rehabilitation glove, soft arm robot, and rigid-soft coupling continuous robot, which further verified the feasibility of US2A as a soft driving component.
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- 2023
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4. Design, Fabrication, and Characterization of a Temperature-Sensitive Fluid-Driven Soft Actuator
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Tomonari Yamamoto, Masaru Tanaka, and Akiya Kamimura
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Hydraulic/pneumatic actuators ,soft actuators ,soft robot materials and design ,soft robotics ,temperature-sensitive materials ,Electrical engineering. Electronics. Nuclear engineering ,TK1-9971 - Abstract
Typical soft actuators can perform unidirectional bending between pressurized and loose states. Multidirectional motion commonly requires multiple chambers or the bundling of multiple unidirectional actuators. If multidirectional motion can be achieved with a simple mechanism, it will provide considerable flexibility in designing objects such as grippers or wearable devices. Here, we present a new design for a multidirectional soft actuator that uses a combination of a temperature-sensitive material (TSM) and a non-temperature-sensitive material (NTSM). The actuator consists of a fluid chamber, and the bending is controlled by the temperature and pressure of the working fluid to balance the stiffness between the TSM and NTSM. In this study, the concept, design, and fabrication method are introduced, and the basic characteristics are discussed through experiments and modeling using a prototype actuator. The results of the static analysis of the curvature and curve fitting based on the model show that actuator bending in a static state can be represented by a simple linear-spring model. We also discuss the features, potential, and applications of the actuator by demonstrating its grasping capabilities.
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- 2024
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5. Visualized Sensing‐Integrated Multi‐Responsive Soft Actuator for On‐Demand Robotic Manipulation.
- Author
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Cui, Xiyue, Zeng, Yuyang, Qin, Liutong, Cheng, Xiang, and Yang, Yuanyuan
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ACTUATORS , *SOFT robotics , *ROBOTICS , *ROBOT hands , *ELECTRIC fields , *MAGNETIC fields - Abstract
Research on small‐scale soft robots has emerged in recent years, and various soft actuators have been developed to implement various actions. Nevertheless, realizing self‐sensing alongside environmental sensing capabilities remains a challenge, largely due to the constraints imposed by compact dimensions and the limited load‐bearing capacity intrinsic to these robots. In this study, an innovative approach is introduced through the development of a visualized sensing integrated soft actuator, which harnesses the actuator's color as a straightforward and real‐time sensing medium. Additionally, a multi‐responsive actuation mechanism is adopted in which the actuator responds concurrently to both electric and magnetic fields. To exemplify the efficacy of this concept, the actuators are engineered as flexible soft grippers, thereby accommodating functions encompassing grasping and transporting. Relying on the color distribution manifested by the actuator, the actuator's self‐sensing ability alongside its capacity to discern object temperatures is demonstrated. Such a soft actuator provides new perspectives in the realm of soft robotics, showing great potential in diverse robotic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2024
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6. Increasing the Force Exertion of a Soft Actuator Using Externally Attachable Inter-Chamber Plates
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Attila Mészáros and József Sárosi
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soft actuator ,soft robotics ,inter-chamber plates ,rigid sub-unit ,bending performance ,Materials of engineering and construction. Mechanics of materials ,TA401-492 ,Production of electric energy or power. Powerplants. Central stations ,TK1001-1841 - Abstract
The application of soft actuators has become increasingly common in wearable devices. In this study, we investigated the force characteristics of soft actuators made entirely of elastic material, when equipped with solid external chamber plates of varying thickness that can be attached from the outside. This study examines the effect of these plates on the force characteristics of a fully silicone-based fifteen-chamber soft actuator without any non-stretchable internal components. The parameters of the actuator were determined with consideration of wearable applications, such as rehabilitation devices and exoskeletons. The observed differences in the behavior of the actuator at various pressure levels and plate thicknesses were measured. Furthermore, the effect of the externally inserted plates between the chambers on the passive bending of the actuator was examined. The obtained results were evaluated and compared to determine how external chamber plates of given thicknesses affect the operational performance of a soft actuator.
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- 2023
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7. Proprioceptive Touch of a Soft Actuator Containing an Embedded Intrinsically Soft Sensor using Kinesthetic Feedback
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Boivin, Megan, Lin, Keng-Yu, Wehner, Michael, and Milutinović, Dejan
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- 2023
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8. A Collapsible Soft Actuator Facilitates Performance in Constrained Environments
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Jacob Rogatinsky, Kiran Gomatam, Zi Heng Lim, Megan Lee, Lorenzo Kinnicutt, Christian Duriez, Perry Thomson, Kevin McDonald, and Tommaso Ranzani
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inflatable robots ,soft actuators ,soft robotics ,Computer engineering. Computer hardware ,TK7885-7895 ,Control engineering systems. Automatic machinery (General) ,TJ212-225 - Abstract
Complex environments, such as those found in surgical and search‐and‐rescue applications, require soft devices to adapt to minimal space conditions without sacrificing the ability to complete dexterous tasks. Stacked balloon actuators (SBAs) are capable of large deformations despite folding nearly flat when deflated, making them ideal candidates for such applications. This paper presents the design, fabrication, modeling, and characterization of monolithic, inflatable, soft SBAs. Modeling is presented using analytical principles based on geometry and then using conventional and real‐time finite‐element methods. Both one and three degree‐of‐freedom (DoF) SBAs are fully characterized with regard to stroke, force, and workspace. Finally, three representative demonstrations show the SBA's small‐aperture navigation, bracing, and workspace‐enhancing capabilities.
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- 2022
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9. Soft Robotics-Fingered Hand Based on Working Principle of Asymmetric Soft Actuator
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Trinh, Hiep Xuan, Binh, Phung Van, Manh, Le Duc, Manh, Nguyen Van, Quang, Ngo Van, Kacprzyk, Janusz, Series Editor, Nguyen, Thi Dieu Linh, editor, and Lu, Joan, editor
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- 2023
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10. A Hybrid Soft Actuator Inspired by Grass-Spike: Design Approach, Dynamic Model, and Applications
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Dong-Woon Choi, Cho-Won Lee, Duk-Yeon Lee, Dong-Wook Lee, and Han-Ul Yoon
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soft robotics ,bio-mimetic design ,hybrid soft actuator ,hybrid soft actuator module ,elbow manipulation ,robotic grasping ,Technology ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Physics ,QC1-999 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
This paper presents the bio-mimetic design approach, the dynamic model, and potential applications for a hybrid soft actuator. The proposed hybrid soft actuator consists of two main parts: a cylinder-shaped rigid core and soft silicone spikes wrapped around the core’s surface. The key idea of the proposed design approach is to mimic the movement of a grass-spike at a functional level by converting the vibration force generated by a small electric motor with a counterweight in the rigid core into a propulsion force produced by the elastic restoration of the spikes. One advantage of this design approach is that the hybrid soft actuator does not need to be tethered by a tube line from an air compressor and is more amenable to fine control. In addition, the hybrid soft actuator can be modularized with a wire and a tubular passage, which in turn work as a linear actuator. The dynamic model of the hybrid soft actuator can be derived by applying Lagrangian mechanics, and unknown system parameters can be identified by the optimization process based on the empirical data. Two applications—an elbow manipulator and a robotic hand grasper—demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed actuator to perform a muscle-tendon action successfully.
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- 2020
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11. Soft Actuator Materials for Electrically Driven Haptic Interfaces
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Ankit, Terence Yan King Ho, Amoolya Nirmal, Mohit Rameshchandra Kulkarni, Dino Accoto, and Nripan Mathews
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electroactive polymers ,haptics ,smart materials ,soft robotics ,tactile feedback ,Computer engineering. Computer hardware ,TK7885-7895 ,Control engineering systems. Automatic machinery (General) ,TJ212-225 - Abstract
Haptics involves human touch sensing and tactile feedback and plays a crucial role in physical interactions of humans with their environment. There is an ever‐increasing interest in development of haptic technologies, due to their role in various applications such as robotics, virtual and augmented reality, healthcare, and smart electronics. Electrically driven actuation mechanisms for soft materials like dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs), electrohydraulic soft actuators (ESAs), ionic polymer−metal composites (IPMCs), and liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) hold the potential for the development of the next generation of haptic feedback devices due to a variety of advantages such as light weight and compact design, untethered activation and control, large actuation strains, and distributed and localized actuation. Herein, a detailed look is taken at the advancement in material designs for these electrically driven soft actuators. A detailed analysis of the different strategies for improving the electromechanical performance of existing material systems is presented. Approaches adopted to synthesize novel material systems are explained. Advancements in compliant electrode materials for the electrically driven soft actuators are also described. The conclusion reflects on the main challenges in the field and provides perspectives on recent advancements expected to have a significant impact.
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- 2022
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12. Steady-state dynamic analysis of a nonlinear fluidic soft actuator.
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Haji, Behzad Janizadeh and Bamdad, Mahdi
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NONLINEAR analysis , *HAMILTON'S principle function , *ACTUATORS , *FINITE element method , *PROPERTIES of fluids , *SOFT robotics - Abstract
The internal channel networks embedded within a soft structure can be a fruitful mechanism to create and activate actuators in the research fields of soft robotics. The deformation of the supporting elastic structure from the pressurized viscous fluid into the channels needs an accurate investigation. In this paper, accurate modeling and dynamic analysis of this nonlinear soft actuator is our goal. In this modeling, the soft actuator is considered the Euler-Bernoulli beam with large deflection and nonlinear strain. After implementing Hamilton's principle, the assumed mode method is used to achieve the mathematical model in terms of the multi-mode system that is more similar to the flexible nature of the actuation system. Steady-state dynamics is investigated by a combination of the complex averaging method with arc-length continuation. The accuracy of the proposed modeling is validated by comparing simulation results to those obtained with a nonlinear finite element method and numerical method. It shows that only one-third of the degree-of-freedoms used for the finite element method are sufficient to obtain equivalent converged solutions with the proposed model. The effect of nonlinear strain and multi-mode consideration in the analysis of the proposed modeling is investigated. It is advantageous to analyze the system performance by looking into the geometrical parameters and fluid properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
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- 2023
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13. Visible Light Responsive Soft Actuator Based on PVA‐DR1.
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Saifi, Anas, Negi, Charu, Singh, Atul Pratap, and Kumar, Kamlesh
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VISIBLE spectra , *ACTUATORS , *BIOMIMETIC materials , *POLYVINYL alcohol , *SOFT robotics , *SOFT X rays , *LIGHT intensity - Abstract
There is a growing interest in creating biomimetic actuators that can perform human‐like actions in response to external stimuli. Despite the significant advancements in soft actuators, using high‐energy UV light in photoresponsive actuators remains a great challenge. Herein, we develop a film composed of polyvinyl alcohol and photo responsive Disperse Red 1 (PVA/DR1) that actuate in response to visible light. The photoresponsive film starts to actuate in the presence of green light due to trans→cis isomerization of photoresponsive dye. The actuation response of the films was investigated by varying concentrations of DR1 dye and the intensity of green light. Based on these features, we demonstrated a four‐arm soft‐gripper that can mimic human‐hand‐like motions in response to green light. This kind of actuator may find potential applications in soft robotics and biomimetic microgrippers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
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14. Highly Mobile Levitating Soft Actuator Driven by Multistimuli‐Responses
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Ji Hun Kim, Jae‐Bum Pyo, and Taek‐Soo Kim
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diamagnetic levitation ,frictionless movement ,multiple motions ,multiresponsive ,soft robotics ,Physics ,QC1-999 ,Technology - Abstract
Abstract Soft actuators exhibit activeness and flexibility and are widely used as next‐generation intelligent devices. However, their locomotion depends on friction with contact surfaces that restrict their movement. To overcome this limitation, a noncontact‐type multiresponsive soft actuator that levitates in a magnetic field is proposed. This soft actuator can respond to humidity, heat, and diamagnetic repulsion force stimuli, resulting in high degrees of freedom and multiple motions. The soft actuator is fabricated by coating a highly hygroscopic membrane onto a diamagnetic graphite film, which enables the actuator to levitate in the magnetic field. Bending actuation is induced by the swelling mismatch between the two layers via the hygrothermal response. The translational force driven by local concentrated heating of the actuator leads to the realization of high‐speed linear and curvilinear motions. Frictionless rotational motion is also realized remotely with broad heating of an asymmetrically bent soft actuator, generating nonzero torque acting on the floating soft actuator. The proposed levitating soft actuators are applied to a fast and reliable capsule‐delivery gripper and a remotely controllable levitated motor. The soft actuator exhibits the potential to be applied in a wide range of applications, such as soft robotics and smart mechanical devices.
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- 2020
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15. Volumetrically Enhanced Soft Actuator With Proprioceptive Sensing
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Weijie Guo, Chaoyang Song, Baiyue Wang, Yi Hongdong, Shihao Feng, and Fang Wan
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0209 industrial biotechnology ,Control and Optimization ,Computer science ,Mechanical Engineering ,Soft actuator ,Biomedical Engineering ,Soft robotics ,02 engineering and technology ,Design strategy ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,Displacement (vector) ,Computer Science Applications ,Computer Science::Robotics ,Human-Computer Interaction ,Form factor (design) ,020901 industrial engineering & automation ,Artificial Intelligence ,Control and Systems Engineering ,Torque ,Robot ,Computer Vision and Pattern Recognition ,0210 nano-technology ,Actuator ,Simulation - Abstract
Soft robots often show a superior power-to-weight ratio using highly compliant, light-weight material, which leverages various bio-inspired body designs to generate desirable deformations for life-like motions. In this letter, given that most material used for soft robots is light-weight in general, we propose a volumetrically enhanced design strategy for soft robots, providing a novel design guideline to govern the form factor of soft robots. We present the design, modeling, and optimization of a volumetrically enhanced soft actuator (VESA) with linear and rotary motions, respectively, achieving superior force and torque output, linear and rotary displacement, and overall extension ratio per unit volume. We further explored VESA's proprioceptive sensing capability by validating the output force and torque through analytical modeling and experimental verification. Our results show that the volumetric metrics hold the potential to be used as a practical design guideline to optimize soft robots’ engineering performance
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- 2021
16. Soft Robotics-Fingered Hand Based on Working Principle of Asymmetric Soft Actuator
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Trinh, Hiep Xuan, Binh, Phung Van, Manh, Le Duc, Manh, Nguyen Van, Quang, Ngo Van, Powers, David M. W., Series Editor, Kumar, Amit, editor, Ghinea, Gheorghita, editor, Merugu, Suresh, editor, and Hashimoto, Takako, editor
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- 2022
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17. Increasing Bending Performance of Soft Actuator by Silicon Rubbers of Multiple Hardness
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Xishuang Jing, Siyu Chen, Chengyang Zhang, and Fubao Xie
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soft robotics ,bending performance ,multiple hardness ,Mechanical engineering and machinery ,TJ1-1570 - Abstract
In this study, a method for fabricating actuators made of various silicone materials is proposed to improve the flexural performance of soft-body actuators. Specifically, the redundant deformation part of the soft actuator was replaced with a material with higher hardness to limit the redundant deformation of the soft actuator. Materials with lower hardness were used to produce the main deformation part of the soft actuator, so that the soft body actuator could perform greater bending under the same air pressure and create a greater bending force. In addition, the fabricated actuator was divided into three regions in this study: the periphery of the chamber, the chamber wall (the main curved part), and the bottom surface of the actuator. The impact on the overall performance of soft-body actuators when using silicone materials with different hardness in these three regions was explored in this study. According to the idea of the multi-hardness silicone structure, an actuator with seven chambers was fabricated, and the performance of the actuator was improved by 90.72% compared with the uniform material actuator.
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- 2022
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18. Integrated Temperature and Position Sensors in a Shape-Memory Driven Soft Actuator for Closed-Loop Control
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Johannes Mersch, Najmeh Keshtkar, Henriette Grellmann, Carlos Alberto Gomez Cuaran, Mathis Bruns, Andreas Nocke, Chokri Cherif, Klaus Röbenack, and Gerald Gerlach
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soft robotics ,shape memory alloys ,fiber rubber composite ,integrated sensors ,active structure control ,Technology ,Electrical engineering. Electronics. Nuclear engineering ,TK1-9971 ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Microscopy ,QH201-278.5 ,Descriptive and experimental mechanics ,QC120-168.85 - Abstract
Soft actuators are a promising option for the advancing fields of human-machine interaction and dexterous robots in complex environments. Shape memory alloy wire actuators can be integrated into fiber rubber composites for highly deformable structures. For autonomous, closed-loop control of such systems, additional integrated sensors are necessary. In this work, a soft actuator is presented that incorporates fiber-based actuators and sensors to monitor both deformation and temperature. The soft actuator showed considerable deformation around two solid body joints, which was then compared to the sensor signals, and their correlation was analyzed. Both, the actuator as well as the sensor materials were processed by braiding and tailored fiber placement before molding with silicone rubber. Finally, the novel fiber-rubber composite material was used to implement closed-loop control of the actuator with a maximum error of 0.5°.
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- 2022
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19. A Bi-State Shape Memory Material Composite Soft Actuator
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Ramprasad Rajagopalan, Andrew J. Petruska, and David Howard
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soft actuators ,soft robotics ,shape memory material ,shape memory alloy ,shape memory polymer ,composite actuator ,Materials of engineering and construction. Mechanics of materials ,TA401-492 ,Production of electric energy or power. Powerplants. Central stations ,TK1001-1841 - Abstract
Shape memory materials have been widely used as programmable soft matter for developing multifunctional hybrid actuators. Several challenges of fabrication and effective modelling of these soft actuating systems can be addressed by implementing novel 3D printing techniques and simulations to aid the designer. In this study, the temperature-dependent recovery of an embedded U-shaped Shape Memory Alloy (SMA) and the shape fixity of a 3D-printed Shape Memory Polymer (SMP) matrix were exploited to create a bi-state Shape Memory Composite (SMC) soft actuator. Electrical heating allowed the SMA to achieve the bi-state condition, undergoing phase transformation to a U shape in the rubbery phase and a flat shape in the glassy phase of the SMP. A COMSOL Multiphysics model was developed to predict the deformation and recovery of the SMC by leveraging the in-built SMA constitutive relations and user-defined material subroutine for the SMP. The bi-state actuation model was validated by capturing the mid-point displacement of the 80 mm length × 10 mm width × 2 mm-thick 3D-printed SMC. The viability of the SMC as a periodic actuator in terms of shape recovery was addressed through modelling and simulation. Results indicated that the proposed COMSOL model was in good agreement with the experiment. In addition, the effect of varying the volume ratio of the SMA wire in the SMC on the maximum and recovered deflection was also obtained. Our model can be used to design SMC actuators with various performance profiles to facilitate future designs in soft robotics and wearable technology applications.
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- 2022
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20. A programmable powerful and ultra-fast water-driven soft actuator inspired by the mutable collagenous tissue of the sea cucumber
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Andrew Choi, Dong Sung Kim, and Hyeonseok Han
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0303 health sciences ,Materials science ,Renewable Energy, Sustainability and the Environment ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Stiffness ,02 engineering and technology ,General Chemistry ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,Water based ,03 medical and health sciences ,Robustness (computer science) ,medicine ,General Materials Science ,Ultra fast ,medicine.symptom ,0210 nano-technology ,Actuator ,Elastic modulus ,030304 developmental biology - Abstract
The sea cucumber evolved to bear mutable collagenous tissue (MCT) that enables its elastic modulus to change by a factor of 10 within a few seconds. It does this by controlling the amount of chemical regulator released, which can subsequently form or break hydrogen bonds within the MCT. Although existing water-driven, self-operating, soft actuators have great potential for soft robotics, they remain fragile and slow; ergo, their range of application remains modest. Inspired by MCT, we introduce a programmable, powerful, and ultra-fast water-driven self-operating soft actuator exerting an actuation force of approximately 2 N with an actuation speed of approximately 3 s−1 in 80 °C water based on the dramatic stiffness alteration of bulk poly(N-isopropylacrylamide) hydrogel. This actuator also exhibits outstanding robustness by preserving its original shape over multiple cycles of highly strained (300%) actuations under harsh environments. A simple modulation of cross-linker concentration with its dimensional adjustment enabled the precise tuning of not only the actuation force but also the actuation speed in a wide range. Thus, the soft robotic gripper was able to perform a myriad of intricate tasks such as capturing a fragile object, acting as a biomedical appliance, and closing a large wound with uniform appropriate forces.
- Published
- 2021
21. Soft Actuator Development for Artificial Muscle
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Kahye Song and Kang Gyeongji
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Computer science ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Artificial muscle ,Electrostatic actuator - Published
- 2021
22. Iterative Learning Control of Trajectory Generation for the Soft Actuator
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Koo, Jachoon and Eunjeong Song
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Control theory ,Real-time Control System ,Computer science ,Iterative learning control ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Trajectory - Published
- 2021
23. Biomimetic Wave Propagation in Magnetic Soft Actuator
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Fujio Tsumori and Hayato Shinoda
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Physics ,History ,Rotating magnetic field ,Magnetic structure ,Field (physics) ,Polymers and Plastics ,Wave propagation ,Acoustics ,Organic Chemistry ,Soft robotics ,Crawling ,Industrial and Manufacturing Engineering ,Magnetic anisotropy ,Flow (mathematics) ,Materials Chemistry ,Business and International Management - Abstract
In this paper, a simple but effective method is proposed to generate a bio-mimic wave propagating motion in a magnetic soft actuator. Two examples, a metachronal wave in artificial cilia and a crawling motion of an artificial caterpillar, are shown as demonstrations. These are kinds of wave propagating motions which are popular in natural systems and are also primitive systems of natural creatures. In the proposed system, an elastic material and a magnetic powder were used to fabricate a flexible magnetic structure. There are 2 essential features in the system; one is periodic arrangement of magnetic anisotropy, and the other is application of a rotating magnetic field. Using this method of wave generation, we realized drastic change in flow making behavior of artificial cilia and a crawling motion very similar to living caterpillars. The proposed system would be useful to enhance the field of the bio-mimic soft robotics.
- Published
- 2022
24. Effect of temperature on the programmable helical deformation of a reconfigurable anisotropic soft actuator
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Qi Ge, Dong Wang, Biao Zhang, Yuan-Fang Zhang, Guoying Gu, Ling Li, and Mao S. Wu
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Materials science ,Applied Mathematics ,Mechanical Engineering ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Metamaterial ,Control reconfiguration ,02 engineering and technology ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,Condensed Matter Physics ,Potential energy ,Shape-memory polymer ,020303 mechanical engineering & transports ,0203 mechanical engineering ,Mechanics of Materials ,Modeling and Simulation ,General Materials Science ,0210 nano-technology ,Actuator ,Anisotropy - Abstract
Shape reconfiguration is ubiquitous in nature and widely used in many applications such as soft robotics, metamaterials, energy absorption and tissue engineering. Shape reconfigurable soft actuators, due to their ability to adapt and adjust in complex and unpredictable working environment, have been designed by the use of various delicate structures and active materials. However, soft actuators that exhibit reconfigurable helical deformation have not been proposed; they have the advantage of integrating both bending and twisting actuations in one deformation mode. In this work, we present a thermal-induced shape reconfigurable soft actuator that shows reversible actuations with vastly shape differences under thermal stimulus. It exhibits helical deformation at lower temperature and mainly in-plane bending at relatively higher temperature. The reversible shape transition is controlled by a thermal stimulus that changes the anisotropy of the structure, which consists of shape memory polymer fibers embedded in a homogeneous elastic matrix. A theoretical model is proposed based on the minimum potential energy that incorporates the thermomechanical behavior of the shape memory polymer fibers. Experiments are conducted and the results agree well with the theoretical modeling. Using the theoretical model, we establish design principles for reconfigurable soft actuators whose functional response is programmable given the architecture and external stimulus. A six-handed helical soft actuator, constructed to demonstrate its programmable deformation, is utilized to catch a living fish in water.
- Published
- 2020
25. Design and Analysis of Soft Actuator with Enhanced Stiffness with Granular Jamming
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Patel, Abbishek Manoj
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Mechanical Engineering ,Granular jamming ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics - Abstract
The field of soft robotics has been increasing popularity and importance in last decade with its groundbreaking applications in the field of delicate food handling industry and rehabilitation of limbs and fingers of stroke affected patients. The area of soft robotics seeks to improve robot safety, allowing them to function in circumstances where standard robots cannot. This research is focused on pneumatically actuated soft robots as they are efficient, easily controlled, affordable, and well researched. These robots consist of one or more soft actuators, made of silicone elastomers with low material hardness. Low hardness silicone actuators are structurally weak and cannot generate functional forces, which can be rectified by simply increasing the hardness of the material, resulting in compromising softness of the robot. This research attempts to provide a solution to increase structural stability and force output of soft actuator without compromising softness of the material. These were achieved in two ways; one, by improving the cross-sectional profile of the actuator, with an addition of vacuum functionality which increases degree of freedom by one. Two, by attaching a granular jamming component to the actuator, which can change its stiffness actively based on the vacuum applied to it. In this research, the soft actuator was made of Eco-Flex 00-30 silicone and ground coffee was used as granular material for jamming. The actuator was designed on CATIA, and simulation analysis was carried out in ANSYS. A simulation study is conducted to optimize the design parameters to improve bending angle. The jamming components are attached on either side of the actuator and filled with ground coffee which provides controlled stiffness. The actuator was fabricated by molding, all molds are 3D printed with polylactic acid. The actuator was powered by an electric air pump. The actuator is evaluated for bending angle and blocking force at the tip. 280% more bending was achieved under vacuum when compared to conventional design. The blocking force was increased by 270% upon implementing jamming component. The force output obtained per unit pressure applied when compared to present literature increased by 4 times. Lastly, these methods can be implemented to improve the performance of any soft pneumatic actuators.
- Published
- 2022
26. A Compact Review of IPMC as Soft Actuator and Sensor: Current Trends, Challenges, and Potential Solutions From Our Recent Work
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Muyu Hao, Yanjie Wang, Zicai Zhu, Qingsong He, Denglin Zhu, and Minzhou Luo
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IPMC ,relaxation effect ,solvent evaporation ,output force ,soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering and machinery ,TJ1-1570 ,Electronic computers. Computer science ,QA75.5-76.95 - Abstract
Recently, attempts have been made to develop ionic polymer–metal composite (IPMC), which is garnering growing interest for ionic artificial muscle, as a soft actuator and sensor due to its inherent properties of low weight, flexibility, softness, and particularly, its efficient transformation of electrical energy into mechanical energy, with large bending strain response under a low activation voltage. In this paper, we focused on several current deficiencies of IPMC that restrict its application, such as non-standardized preparation steps, relaxation under DC voltage, solvent evaporation, and poor output force. Corresponding solutions to overcome the abovementioned problems have recently been proposed from our point of view and developed through our research. After a brief introduction to the working mechanism of IPMC, we here investigate the key factors that influence the actuating performance of IPMC. We also review the optimization strategies in IPMC actuation, including those for preparation steps, additive selection for a thick casting membrane, solvent substitutes, water content, encapsulation, etc. With consideration of the role of the interface electrode, its effects on the performance of IPMC are revealed based on our previous work. Finally, we also discuss IPMCs as potential sensors theoretically and experimentally. The elimination of the deficiencies of IPMC will promote its applications in soft robotics.
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- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
27. Soft Actuator Materials for Electrically Driven Haptic Interfaces
- Author
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Mohit Rameshchandra Kulkarni, Dino Accoto, Terence Yan King Ho, Nripan Mathews, Amoolya Nirmal, and Ankit
- Subjects
soft robotics ,tactile feedback ,Computer engineering. Computer hardware ,Control engineering systems. Automatic machinery (General) ,Computer science ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Smart material ,electroactive polymers ,TK7885-7895 ,haptics ,Hardware_GENERAL ,smart materials ,TJ212-225 ,Electroactive polymers ,General Economics, Econometrics and Finance ,Haptic technology - Abstract
Haptics involves human touch sensing and tactile feedback and plays a crucial role in physical interactions of humans with their environment. There is an ever‐increasing interest in development of haptic technologies, due to their role in various applications such as robotics, virtual and augmented reality, healthcare, and smart electronics. Electrically driven actuation mechanisms for soft materials like dielectric elastomer actuators (DEAs), electrohydraulic soft actuators (ESAs), ionic polymer−metal composites (IPMCs), and liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs) hold the potential for the development of the next generation of haptic feedback devices due to a variety of advantages such as light weight and compact design, untethered activation and control, large actuation strains, and distributed and localized actuation. Herein, a detailed look is taken at the advancement in material designs for these electrically driven soft actuators. A detailed analysis of the different strategies for improving the electromechanical performance of existing material systems is presented. Approaches adopted to synthesize novel material systems are explained. Advancements in compliant electrode materials for the electrically driven soft actuators are also described. The conclusion reflects on the main challenges in the field and provides perspectives on recent advancements expected to have a significant impact.
- Published
- 2022
28. Concept and Prototype of Soft Actuator for Liquid Nitrogen Temperature Environments
- Author
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Masaya Takasaki, Tatsuya Hanaki, Daisuke Yamaguchi, Takeshi Mizuno, Masayuki Hara, and Yuji Ishino
- Subjects
0209 industrial biotechnology ,020901 industrial engineering & automation ,Materials science ,General Computer Science ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,02 engineering and technology ,Electrical and Electronic Engineering ,Liquid nitrogen ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,0210 nano-technology ,Polyimide - Abstract
A prototype of a soft actuator for extreme environments was fabricated, and driven in a cryogenic temperature environment. Previous soft actuators cannot be used for robots in extreme environments because resin, the main fabrication material, exhibits weak environmental characteristics. Therefore, this study proposes the application of polyimide (PI) films to soft actuators. PI is characterized by excellent environmental resistance. However, the welding of PI is difficult because of its high resistance. In this study, a welding method was developed for PI films. This method does not require pretreatment, or the use of adhesives or additives to reduce resistance. Hence, an actuator that utilizes all the characteristics of PI was realized. The actuator was characterized in a cryogenic environment, which is one of the extreme environments, and was successfully driven at a liquid nitrogen temperature of 78 K. This proposed technology is not limited to cryogenic environments and is expected to provide extreme environmental resistance to existing soft robots.
- Published
- 2020
29. Performance study of RTV-2 Silicone Rubber Material For Soft Actuator by Experimental and Numerical methods: The Effect of Inflation Pressure and Wall Thickness
- Author
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Manoj Bhat, D Deepak, Shreyas P. Shetty, Saurabh Jain, and Nitesh Kumar
- Subjects
Materials science ,Fabrication ,020209 energy ,Mechanical Engineering ,Numerical analysis ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,02 engineering and technology ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,Silicone rubber ,chemistry.chemical_compound ,chemistry ,Hyperelastic material ,Automotive Engineering ,0202 electrical engineering, electronic engineering, information engineering ,Elongation ,Composite material ,0210 nano-technology ,Actuator - Abstract
The expensive nature of currently used materials in the soft robotic industry demands the consideration of alternative materials for fabrication. This work investigates the performance of RTV-2 grade silicone rubber for fabrication of a soft actuator. Initially, a cylindrical actuator is fabricated using this material and its performance is experimentally assessed for different pressures. Further, parametric variations of the effect of wall thickness and inflation pressure are studied by numerical methods. Results show that, both wall thickness and inflation pressure are influential parameters which affect the elongation behaviour of the actuator. Thin (1.5 mm) sectioned actuators produced 76.97% more elongation compared to thick sectioned, but the stress induced is 89.61 % higher. Whereas, the thick sectioned actuator (6 mm) showed a higher load transmitting capability. With change in wall thickness from 1.5 mm to 6 mm, the elongation is reduced by 76.97 %, 38.35 %, 21.05 % and 11.43 % at pressure 100 kPa, 75 kPa, 50 kPa and 25 kPa respectively. The induced stress is also found reduced by 89.61 %, 86.66 %, 84.46 % and 68.68 % at these pressures. The average load carrying capacity of the actuator is found to be directly proportional to its wall thickness and inflation pressure.
- Published
- 2020
30. A low-voltage electro-ionic soft actuator based on graphene nanoplatelets-sulfonated cellulose nanowhisker combined with microfibrillated cellulose.
- Author
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Wang, Fan, Wang, Lei, Wu, Zhenyu, and Wang, Wei
- Subjects
- *
CELLULOSE , *ACTUATORS , *HAPTIC devices , *GRAPHENE , *IONIC interactions , *ARTIFICIAL muscles , *SOFT robotics - Abstract
Low-voltage soft actuators with large displacement, long actuation durability, and fast response time have aroused great attention in soft robotics, wearable devices, haptic devices, and implantable or disposal biomedical devices. Herein, we report a low-voltage electroactive ionic soft actuator based on the sulfonated cellulose nanowhisker (SCN), microfibrillated cellulose (MFC), ionic liquids (IL), and graphene nanoplatelet (GN). The proposed SCN/MFC-IL-GN (0.1wt%) actuator demonstrated a large bending displacement (6.6 mm under ± 1 V sinusoidal input signal at 0.1 Hz, low driving voltage (as low as 0.25 V), wide actuation frequency (0.1 to 5.0 Hz), and long actuation durability (96.7% retention for 1 h), all of which stemmed from the strong crosslinking and ionic interactions among the functional sulfonated groups of SCN, hydroxyl groups of MFC, IL, and GN. Furthermore, the designed actuator was successfully employed to imitate the human finger's behaviors including turning on/off the flashlight and sliding electronic photographs on a smart phone screen. Therefore, the proposed SCN/MFC-IL-GN actuator has great potential in artificial muscles, soft robots, haptic devices, and wearable devices because of its low excitation voltage, large bending displacement, long actuation durability, and biofriendly property. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
31. A Versatile Ionomer‐Based Soft Actuator with Multi‐Stimulus Responses, Self‐Sustainable Locomotion, and Photoelectric Conversion.
- Author
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Chang, Longfei, Wang, Dongping, Huang, Zhishan, Wang, Chaofan, Torop, Janno, Li, Bo, Wang, Yanjie, Hu, Ying, and Aabloo, Alvo
- Subjects
- *
ARTIFICIAL intelligence , *BIONICS , *CARBON nanotubes , *ACTUATORS , *SOFT robotics , *THERMAL expansion , *LOW voltage systems - Abstract
The prospects of endowing artificial robotics or devices with increasingly complex and emergent life‐like behaviors have attracted growing interest in the soft functional materials that mimic the versatile motions of living creatures in the iridescent nature. However, despite the flourishing achievements so far, soft actuators capable of sensitive multi‐stimulus responses and self‐sustainable movements, have been extensively pursued to reduce control complexity yet remains a challenging target. Here, through material‐structural synergistic design incorporating stress‐mismatching structure, high pseudo‐negative coefficient of thermal expansion of perfluoro‐sulfonic acid ionomer, comprehensive converting properties of carbon nanotube, and anisotropic large thermal expansion of PE polymer, an ionomer‐based bilayer actuator is proposed, presenting high‐performance actuation of various forms and nice stability, responsive to light (including sunlight without focusing, LED light), low voltage, mild heating, and humidity/solvent change. With a built‐in structural feedback loop, the actuation performances are further explored to realize intelligent systems, including: 1) self‐sustainable locomotion under sunlight irradiation with adjustable photophobic and phototropic direction as well as adaption to different topographies and loading conditions, 2) self‐sustainable oscillation and solar‐electric generating, and 3) bionic floristic reaction according to environmental change. These diversified actuation modes allow promising following‐up designs for bio‐hybrid soft robotics fueled by and harmonized with natural environments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
32. Design, characterization, and manufacturing of circular bellows pneumatic soft actuator
- Author
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Rehman, Tariq, Faudzi, Ahmad Athif Mohd, Dewi, Dyah Ekashanti Octorina, and Ali, Mohamad Sultan Mohamad
- Published
- 2017
- Full Text
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33. A method for determining parameters of hyperelastic materials and its application in simulation of pneumatic soft actuator
- Author
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Viet Duc Nguyen, Chi Thanh Vo, Van Binh Phung, Anh Vang Tran, Hoang Minh Dang, and Hai Nam Nguyen
- Subjects
Numerical Analysis ,Materials science ,Constitutive equation ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Silicone rubber ,Computer Science Applications ,chemistry.chemical_compound ,chemistry ,Mechanics of Materials ,Modeling and Simulation ,Hyperelastic material ,Shore durometer ,Material constants ,General Materials Science ,Actuator - Abstract
This paper presents a method for determining material constants of hyperelastic material used for building the soft robotic actuators. Sixty testpieces were made of silicone rubber with a shore A hardness from 20 A to 45 A. Each of them was then subjected to the uniaxial tensile test to obtain the stress–strain relationship, which is a key factor to evaluate the compatibility of the common six forms of strain energy density function for hyperelastic material. The sum of square error was used to determine the most relevant constitutive models, which are Ogden third order, Polynomial second order, and Yeoh, as well as parameter values of the corresponding materials. To analyze the appropriateness of these models for computation, six pneumatic soft actuators were built from materials with different hardness and tested for various pressures. From the simulation and experimental results, the model Yeoh has yielded the highest accuracy. This outcome forms a firm basis for the determination of suitable material in the computation and simulation of the pneumatic soft actuator. Besides, the obtained experimental results in this paper could be included in the database of hyperelastic material with different hardness for further simulation in the related field.
- Published
- 2021
34. Highly Mobile Levitating Soft Actuator Driven by Multistimuli‐Responses.
- Author
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Kim, Ji Hun, Pyo, Jae‐Bum, and Kim, Taek‐Soo
- Subjects
ACTUATORS ,CARBON films ,MAGNETIC actuators ,ROTATIONAL motion ,SMART devices ,MAGNETIC suspension - Abstract
Soft actuators exhibit activeness and flexibility and are widely used as next‐generation intelligent devices. However, their locomotion depends on friction with contact surfaces that restrict their movement. To overcome this limitation, a noncontact‐type multiresponsive soft actuator that levitates in a magnetic field is proposed. This soft actuator can respond to humidity, heat, and diamagnetic repulsion force stimuli, resulting in high degrees of freedom and multiple motions. The soft actuator is fabricated by coating a highly hygroscopic membrane onto a diamagnetic graphite film, which enables the actuator to levitate in the magnetic field. Bending actuation is induced by the swelling mismatch between the two layers via the hygrothermal response. The translational force driven by local concentrated heating of the actuator leads to the realization of high‐speed linear and curvilinear motions. Frictionless rotational motion is also realized remotely with broad heating of an asymmetrically bent soft actuator, generating nonzero torque acting on the floating soft actuator. The proposed levitating soft actuators are applied to a fast and reliable capsule‐delivery gripper and a remotely controllable levitated motor. The soft actuator exhibits the potential to be applied in a wide range of applications, such as soft robotics and smart mechanical devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
35. Highly Dynamic Bistable Soft Actuator for Reconfigurable Multimodal Soft Robots.
- Author
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Patel, Dinesh K., Huang, Xiaonan, Luo, Yichi, Mungekar, Mrunmayi, Jawed, M. Khalid, Yao, Lining, and Majidi, Carmel
- Subjects
- *
SHAPE memory alloys , *ACTUATORS , *ARTIFICIAL muscles , *ROBOTS , *COMPACTING , *SOFT robotics - Abstract
Matching the rich multimodality of natural organisms, i.e., the ability to transition between crawling and swimming, walking and jumping, etc., represents a grand challenge in the fields of soft and bio‐inspired robotics. Here, a multimodal soft robot locomotion using highly compact and dynamic bistable soft actuators is achieved. These actuators are composed of a prestretched membrane sandwiched between two 3D printed frames with embedded shape memory alloy (SMA) coils. The actuator can swiftly transform between two oppositely curved states and generate a force of 0.3 N through a snap‐through instability that is triggered after 0.2 s of electrical activation with an input power of 21.1 ± 0.32 W (i.e., electrical energy input of 4.22 ± 0.06 J. The consistency and robustness of the snap‐through actuator response is experimentally validated through cyclical testing (580 cycles). The compact and fast‐responding properties of the soft bistable actuator allow it to be used as an artificial muscle for shape‐reconfigurable soft robots capable of multiple modes of SMA‐powered locomotion. This is demonstrated by creating three soft robots, including a reconfigurable amphibious robot that can walk on land and swim in water, a jumping robot (multimodal crawler) that can crawl and jump, and a caterpillar‐inspired rolling robot that can crawl and roll. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
36. Trunk-like Soft Actuator: Design, Modeling, and Experiments.
- Author
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Bao, Guanjun, Chen, Lingfeng, Zhang, Yaqi, Cai, Shibo, Xu, Fang, Yang, Qinghua, and Zhang, Libin
- Subjects
- *
SOFT robotics , *ACTUATORS , *ACTUATOR testing , *ROBOT control systems , *PNEUMATIC actuators , *MATHEMATICAL models - Abstract
SUMMARY: In recent years, soft robotics is widely considered as the most promising field for both research and application. First of all, the actuator is fundamental for designing, modeling, and controlling of soft robots. This paper presents a new type of pneumatic trunk-like soft actuator, which contains a chamber for stiffness adjustment in addition to three chambers for driving. Thus, the salient feature of the proposed actuator is the ability of stiffness self-regulation. The structure of the proposed actuator is described in detail. Then the theoretical models for elongation and bending motion of the actuator are established. The elongation as well as single-chamber and multi-chamber driving bending of the actuator were tested to verify the mathematical models. Finally, a dual-segment soft robot based on the proposed trunk-like soft actuator was developed and tested by experiments, which implies its potential application in practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
37. Design of a pneumatic soft actuator controlled via eye tracking and detection
- Author
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Victoria Oguntosin and Ademola Abdulkareem
- Subjects
0301 basic medicine ,Eye tracker controlled actuator ,Computer science ,Soft robotics ,Structural analysis ,Soft robot ,Article ,law.invention ,03 medical and health sciences ,0302 clinical medicine ,Air pump ,law ,Computer engineering ,Pneumatic actuator ,lcsh:Social sciences (General) ,lcsh:Science (General) ,Pleated network design ,Simulation ,Corrugated actuator ,Multidisciplinary ,business.industry ,Data visualization ,Materials characterization ,Tobii tracker 4c with soft actuator ,Robotics ,030104 developmental biology ,Electrical engineering ,Eye gaze system for control ,Vacuum pump ,Eye tracking ,Robot ,lcsh:H1-99 ,Artificial intelligence ,business ,Actuator ,Biomedical engineering ,030217 neurology & neurosurgery ,lcsh:Q1-390 - Abstract
This work describes the control of a pneumatic soft robotic actuator via eye movements. The soft robot is actuated using two supply sources: a vacuum pump and an air supply pump for both negative and positive air supply sources respectively. Two controlled states are presented: the actuation of the vacuum and air pump. Through eye positioning and tracking on the graphical user interface to actuate either pump, a control command is directed to inflate or deflate the pneumatic actuator. The potential of this application is in rehabilitation, whereby eye movements are used to control a rehabilitation-based assistive soft actuator rather than ON/OFF electronics. This is demonstrated in this work using an elbow based rehabilitation soft actuator., Biomedical Engineering; Electrical Engineering; Data Visualization; Computer Engineering; Robotics; Materials Characterization; Structural Analysis; pneumatic actuator; soft robot; pleated network design; corrugated actuator; eye tracker controlled actuator; eye gaze system for control; tobii tracker 4c with soft actuator
- Published
- 2020
38. Novel bio-inspired variable stiffness soft actuator via fiber-reinforced dielectric elastomer, inspired by Octopus bimaculoides
- Author
-
Masoud Asgari and Alireza Ahmadi
- Subjects
Computer science ,Mechanical Engineering ,Computational Mechanics ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Stiffness ,Elastomer ,Finite element method ,Controllability ,Artificial Intelligence ,Grippers ,Bending stiffness ,medicine ,medicine.symptom ,Actuator ,Engineering (miscellaneous) - Abstract
Compliant devices are used in a wide variety of applications like soft robots. Although soft robotics have played an important role in providing the desired compliance and reducing the safety concerns on robot–human interactions, the research community soon realized that for a soft robot, not only is the compliance quite important, but also the change in the compliance and its controllability is paramount. In this regard, this research proposes a novel bio-inspired variable stiffness fiber-reinforced dielectric elastomer actuator that performs similar to the tissues of the California two-spot octopus, scientifically known as Octopus bimaculoides. It is shown that by using an initially curved dielectric elastomer strip and by properly incorporating fibers, an interesting variable stiffness actuator can be created that lays the foundation for future bionic fingers and grippers. Using an experimentally validated numerical framework, different geometries of the proposed variable stiffness dielectric elastomer actuator (VSDEA) are simulated by the means of the finite element method. The main outputs of the simulations are the force–displacement curves for different configurations of the proposed VSDEA activated by different voltages ranging from 0 to 7.5 kV. The bending stiffness of the actuators that is the initial slope of the force–displacement curves is calculated and compared for different configurations. By analyzing the outcomes of the simulations, the paper introduces an optimum configuration that is capable of varying the stiffness of the structure up to 99.3% which is a good improvement compared with previous studies.
- Published
- 2021
39. Fast Response, High‐Power Tunable Ultrathin Soft Actuator by Functional Piezoelectric Material Composite for Haptic Device Application.
- Author
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Shouji, Yoshinori, Sekine, Tomohito, Ito, Keita, Ito, Naoya, Yasuda, Tatsuya, Wang, Yi‐Fei, Takeda, Yasunori, Kumaki, Daisuke, Santos, Fabrice Domingues Dos, Miyabo, Atsushi, and Tokito, Shizuo
- Subjects
HAPTIC devices ,PIEZOELECTRIC materials ,PIEZOELECTRIC actuators ,COMPOSITE materials ,CONDUCTING polymers ,PIEZOELECTRIC composites ,ARTIFICIAL muscles ,SOFT robotics ,FERROELECTRIC polymers - Abstract
Recently, self‐driven soft robotics based on biomimetics, capable of mimicking biological motion, has attracted attention. Soft actuators using intrinsically soft organic materials are expected to be applied to haptic devices, artificial muscles, and micropumps. Ferroelectric polymers can aid in the realization of such soft actuators. However, actuators using such materials encounter problems in terms of the response frequency to an applied voltage. In this study, a soft actuator is fabricated by a printing process using a unique composite material comprising P(VDF‐TrFE), nano‐carbon material (single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNT) and graphene oxide (GO)), and conductive polymer. To characterize the actuator using a minimum substrate thickness of 25 µm, hysteresis curves in the ferroelectric properties and driving characteristics according to the applied frequency are clarified. In addition, the mechanical life of the actuator under continuous voltage sweep is clarified considering it as a mechanical property. Subsequently, a simple haptics system is constructed using the fabricated actuators, and a human‐sensitive actuator demonstration system is constructed wherein the phase of the sweep frequency is variable. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
40. Model of a Coil-Reinforced Cylindrical Soft Actuator
- Author
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Takahiro Kanno, Shunya Ohkura, Osamu Azami, Tetsuro Miyazaki, Toshihiro Kawase, and Kenji Kawashima
- Subjects
soft robotics ,pneumatic actuator ,cylinder ,Technology ,Engineering (General). Civil engineering (General) ,TA1-2040 ,Biology (General) ,QH301-705.5 ,Physics ,QC1-999 ,Chemistry ,QD1-999 - Abstract
A cylindrical soft actuator is suitable for applications in which pneumatic or hydraulic cylinders are conventionally used. In this report, we discuss the force output model of a spring-reinforced-type cylindrical soft actuator. This type of actuator outputs a larger force than the air pressure multiplied by the pressure-receiving area. We construct a quasi-static model to explore the reason for this phenomenon, based on the strength of materials. A thick-walled cylinder model with three boundary conditions was defined and analyzed. The model indicates that the rubber cylinder itself transmits pneumatic pressure and contributes to the output force. We also modeled the relationship between the pressure and the elongation of the soft actuator. Experiments were conducted to evaluate the proposed models.
- Published
- 2019
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
41. A New Cable-driven Torsion and Bending Soft Actuator Inspired by Parallel Robot
- Author
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Jihong Yan, Xinbin Zhang, Jie Zhao, and Ruoyu Zhang
- Subjects
0209 industrial biotechnology ,Conservation of energy ,Computer science ,Soft actuator ,Parallel manipulator ,Soft robotics ,Torsion (mechanics) ,Mechanical engineering ,02 engineering and technology ,Kinematics ,021001 nanoscience & nanotechnology ,Computer Science::Robotics ,020901 industrial engineering & automation ,Cable driven ,0210 nano-technology ,Actuator - Abstract
The cooperation of torsion and bending can improve the flexibility in the motion process especially in complex and narrow space. There is few research about torsion in soft actuators until now, most of them focus on bending and elongation. Moreover, motion form is often single so that it is hard to imply complex tasks. In this paper, inspired by the structure features of parallel robot, we propose a new cable-driven soft actuator whose driven cable is arranged imitating the supporting rod of parallel robot. This actuator can implement clockwise and anti-clockwise torsion and two modes bending motion respectively. The maximum torsion angle can realize 45° and the maximum bending angle is 90°. First, we introduce the design principle and fabrication process. After that, we utilize conservation of energy method and force decomposition analysis to establish the kinematics of actuator, in addition, based on that, we conduct the parameters optimization. Finally, we design an experiment platform to conduct experiments and make the contrast with theory. This soft actuator can highly improve the flexibility in soft robotics, especially in wrist joint imitation.
- Published
- 2019
42. Effect of temperature on the programmable helical deformation of a reconfigurable anisotropic soft actuator.
- Author
-
Wang, Dong, Li, Ling, Zhang, Biao, Zhang, Yuan-Fang, Wu, Mao See, Gu, Guoying, and Ge, Qi
- Subjects
- *
SHAPE memory polymers , *TEMPERATURE effect , *SOFT robotics , *ACTUATORS , *REVERSIBLE phase transitions , *TISSUE engineering - Abstract
Shape reconfiguration is ubiquitous in nature and widely used in many applications such as soft robotics, metamaterials, energy absorption and tissue engineering. Shape reconfigurable soft actuators, due to their ability to adapt and adjust in complex and unpredictable working environment, have been designed by the use of various delicate structures and active materials. However, soft actuators that exhibit reconfigurable helical deformation have not been proposed; they have the advantage of integrating both bending and twisting actuations in one deformation mode. In this work, we present a thermal-induced shape reconfigurable soft actuator that shows reversible actuations with vastly shape differences under thermal stimulus. It exhibits helical deformation at lower temperature and mainly in-plane bending at relatively higher temperature. The reversible shape transition is controlled by a thermal stimulus that changes the anisotropy of the structure, which consists of shape memory polymer fibers embedded in a homogeneous elastic matrix. A theoretical model is proposed based on the minimum potential energy that incorporates the thermomechanical behavior of the shape memory polymer fibers. Experiments are conducted and the results agree well with the theoretical modeling. Using the theoretical model, we establish design principles for reconfigurable soft actuators whose functional response is programmable given the architecture and external stimulus. A six-handed helical soft actuator, constructed to demonstrate its programmable deformation, is utilized to catch a living fish in water. Image, graphical abstract [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2020
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
43. Echo State Network for Soft Actuator Control.
- Author
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Caremel, Cedric, Ishige, Matthew, Ta, Tung D., and Kawahara, Yoshihiro
- Subjects
- *
SHAPE memory alloys , *ACTUATORS , *ROBOT control systems , *ECHO , *MODEL theory , *SOFT robotics - Abstract
Conventional model theories are not suitable to control soft-bodied robots as deformable materials present rapidly changing behaviors. Neuromorphic electronics are now entering the field of robotics, demonstrating that a highly integrated device can mimic the fundamental properties of a sensory synaptic system, including learning and proprioception. This research work focuses on the physical implementation of a reservoir computing-based network to actuate a soft-bodied robot. More specifically, modeling the hysteresis of a shape memory alloy (SMA) using echo state networks (ESN) in real-world situations represents a novel approach to enable soft machines with task-learning. In this work, we show that not only does our ESN model enable our SMA-based robot with locomotion, but it also discovers a successful strategy to do so. Compared to standard control modeling, established either by theoretical frameworks or from experimental data, here, we gained knowledge a posteriori, guided by the physical interactions between the trained model and the controlled actuator, interactions from which striking patterns emerged, and informed us about what type of locomotion would work best for our robot. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2022
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
44. Increasing the Force Exertion of a Soft Actuator Using Externally Attachable Inter-Chamber Plates.
- Author
-
Mészáros, Attila and Sárosi, József
- Subjects
ACTUATORS ,ROBOTIC exoskeletons ,SOFT robotics - Abstract
The application of soft actuators has become increasingly common in wearable devices. In this study, we investigated the force characteristics of soft actuators made entirely of elastic material, when equipped with solid external chamber plates of varying thickness that can be attached from the outside. This study examines the effect of these plates on the force characteristics of a fully silicone-based fifteen-chamber soft actuator without any non-stretchable internal components. The parameters of the actuator were determined with consideration of wearable applications, such as rehabilitation devices and exoskeletons. The observed differences in the behavior of the actuator at various pressure levels and plate thicknesses were measured. Furthermore, the effect of the externally inserted plates between the chambers on the passive bending of the actuator was examined. The obtained results were evaluated and compared to determine how external chamber plates of given thicknesses affect the operational performance of a soft actuator. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2023
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
45. Applying Soft Actuator Technology for Hand Rehabilitation
- Author
-
Tri T. M. Huynh, Quyen N. T. Vo, and Son V. T. Dao
- Subjects
Flexibility (engineering) ,Pneumatic actuator ,business.industry ,Computer science ,GRASP ,Soft robotics ,Robot ,3D printing ,Wearable computer ,Mechanical engineering ,Actuator ,business - Abstract
In modern society, the ever-growing prevalence of stroke or hand disability, putting an extreme burden on the limited financial resources and capacities of health care providers in some of the Low and Middle-Income Countries (LMIC). Due to the large scale of flexibility and adaptability, soft robots turn into a smart solution for hand rehabilitation, especially soft pneumatic actuators. In this paper, we proposed a general design of soft robotic glove for hand rehabilitation with functional grasp pathologies by applying soft pneumatic actuator technology. Soft actuator included integrated channel connect each chamber to lead the air to go through the entire actuator and produce bending motion conforms with human finger shape and motion. Base on this aspect, before fabrication, a Finite Element Model (FEM) was built to analyze the bending curvature of these actuators. The soft actuator is cast in 3D printing molds using low-cost elastomer Ecoflex™ 0050. We carried out empirical tests to validate the findings of experimental actuators and compared them to FEM data displaying strong agreement. Finally, the design of a wearable for patients to practice rehabilitative activities such as grasping patterns. The outcome of this paper shows that the design of rehabilitation glove using soft actuator technology gave a successful solution for the health care system with low-cost material.
- Published
- 2021
46. Protein-based soft actuator with high photo-response and easy modulation for anisotropic cell alignment and proliferation in a liquid environment
- Author
-
Yu Yan Au Yong, Yu Chih Lo, Wen Liang Chen, Shwu Jen Chang, San-Yuan Chen, Yen Han Lai, and Min Yu Chiang
- Subjects
Materials science ,Cell Survival ,Infrared Rays ,Biomedical Engineering ,Soft robotics ,Fibroin ,Biocompatible Materials ,Tissue engineering ,Materials Testing ,Humans ,General Materials Science ,Particle Size ,Cells, Cultured ,Cell Proliferation ,Tissue Engineering ,Bilayer ,Cell Differentiation ,Hydrogels ,General Chemistry ,General Medicine ,Biophysics ,Anisotropy ,Artificial muscle ,Graphite ,Actuator ,Fibroins ,Peptides ,C2C12 ,Micropatterning - Abstract
Cell alignment and elongation, which are critical factors correlated with differentiation and maturation in cell biology and tissue engineering, have been widely studied in organisms. Several strategies such as external mechanical strain, geometric topography, micropatterning approaches, and microfabricated substrates have been developed to guide cell alignment, but these methodologies cannot be used for easily denatured natural proteins to modulate the cell behaviour. Herein, for the first time, a novel biocompatible light-controlled protein-based bilayer soft actuator composed of elastin-like polypeptides (ELPs), silk fibroin (SF), graphene oxide (GO), and reduced graphene oxide (rGO), named ESGRG, is developed for efficiently driving cellular orientation and elongation with anisotropic features on soft actuator via remote NIR laser exposure. The actuation of ESGRG could be manipulated by modulating the intensity of NIR and the relative ratio of GO to rGO for promoting myoblasts alignment and nucleus elongation to generate different motions. The results indicate that the YAP and MHC protein expression of C2C12 skeletal muscle cells on ESGRG can be rapidly induced and enhanced by controlling the relative ratio of rGO/GO = 1/4 at a multiple-cycle stimulation with a very low power intensity of 1.2 W cm-2 in friendly liquid environments. This study demonstrates that the ESGRG hydrogel actuator system can modulate the cell-level behaviors via light-driven cyclic bending-motions and can be utilized in applications of soft robotic and tissue engineering such as artificial muscle and maturation of cardiomyocytes.
- Published
- 2021
47. Nanocellulose‐Based Functional Materials: From Chiral Photonics to Soft Actuator and Energy Storage.
- Author
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Lv, Pengfei, Lu, Xiaomin, Wang, Ling, and Feng, Wei
- Subjects
- *
ENERGY storage , *PHOTONICS , *MATERIALS science , *MEDICAL sciences , *SOFT robotics , *SYNTHETIC biology , *ACTUATORS - Abstract
Nanocellulose is currently in the limelight of extensive research from fundamental science to technological applications owing to its renewable and carbon‐neutral nature, superior biocompatibility, tailorable surface chemistry, and unprecedented optical and mechanical properties. Herein, an up‐to‐date account of the recent advancements in nanocellulose‐derived functional materials and their emerging applications in areas of chiral photonics, soft actuators, energy storage, and biomedical science is provided. The fundamental design and synthesis strategies for nanocellulose‐based functional materials are discussed. Their unique properties, underlying mechanisms, and potential applications are highlighted. Finally, this review provides a brief conclusion and elucidates both the challenges and opportunities of the intriguing nanocellulose‐based technologies rooted in materials and chemistry science. This review is expected to provide new insights for nanocellulose‐based chiral photonics, soft robotics, advanced energy, and novel biomedical technologies, and promote the rapid development of these highly interdisciplinary fields, including nanotechnology, nanoscience, biology, physics, synthetic chemistry, materials science, and device engineering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Published
- 2021
- Full Text
- View/download PDF
48. Design and modeling of a hydraulic soft actuator with three degrees of freedom
- Author
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Shengda Yao, Zhipeng Zhu, Qing Xie, Ning Tan, Tao Wang, and Shiqiang Zhu
- Subjects
Computer science ,Soft actuator ,Soft robotics ,Mechanical engineering ,Kinematics ,Condensed Matter Physics ,Atomic and Molecular Physics, and Optics ,Three degrees of freedom ,Mechanics of Materials ,Nonlinear deformation ,Signal Processing ,General Materials Science ,Electrical and Electronic Engineering ,Civil and Structural Engineering - Published
- 2020
49. A Polyurethane-based Electrospun Nanofiber Bundle Soft Actuator: Fabrication, Modeling, and Control
- Author
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Raffaella Carloni, Giovanni Paoletta, Riccardo D'Anniballe, and Artificial Intelligence
- Subjects
Computer Science::Robotics ,Materials science ,Fabrication ,Electric field ,Bundle ,Nanofiber ,Soft robotics ,Composite material ,Actuator ,Electrical conductor ,Electrospinning ,Computer Science::Other - Abstract
This paper focuses on a novel polyurethane-based soft actuator that is fabricated by an electrospinning process. The actuator is a bundle of aligned nanofibers of a polyurethane solution and a salt, which acts as a conductive filler. From the same bundle, three actuators are obtained. Electromechanical tests are performed on one specimen to evaluate the axial displacements and axial forces generated by the actuator, when stimulated by an external electric field. The data generated during the electromechanical tests are used to identify the non-linear dynamics of the specimen by means of a multilayer perceptron. Subsequently, the identified dynamic model is used to design a position control architecture that controls the applied electric field to regulate the axial displacement of a second specimen. Finally, as a proof of concept for the usability of the nanofiber bundle soft actuator, a third specimen is tested in a robotic prototype, in which a rigid link moves thanks to the actuator’s contraction capability.
- Published
- 2021
50. Fully-Printable Soft Actuator with Variable Stiffness by Phase Transition and Hydraulic Regulations
- Author
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Catherine Jiayi Cai, Manivannan Sivaperuman Kalairaj, Tingchen Liao, Zion Tsz Ho Tse, and Hongliang Ren
- Subjects
Phase transition ,Work (thermodynamics) ,TK1001-1841 ,Control and Optimization ,Materials science ,hydraulic actuators ,soft gripper ,Soft robotics ,MathematicsofComputing_GENERAL ,soft actuators ,Bending ,variable stiffness ,valves ,Production of electric energy or power. Powerplants. Central stations ,medicine ,Composite material ,Materials of engineering and construction. Mechanics of materials ,Stiffness ,shape memory polymers ,Shape-memory polymer ,TheoryofComputation_MATHEMATICALLOGICANDFORMALLANGUAGES ,Control and Systems Engineering ,TA401-492 ,medicine.symptom ,Actuator ,Size effect on structural strength - Abstract
Actuators with variable stiffness have vast potential in the field of compliant robotics. Morphological shape changes in the actuators are possible, while they retain their structural strength. They can shift between a rigid load-carrying state and a soft flexible state in a short transition period. This work presents a hydraulically actuated soft actuator fabricated by a fully 3D printing of shape memory polymer (SMP). The actuator shows a stiffness of 519 mN/mm at 20 ∘C and 45 mN/mm at 50 ∘C at the same pressure (0.2 MPa). This actuator demonstrates a high stiffness variation of 474 mN/mm (10 times the baseline stiffness) for a temperature change of 30 ∘C and a large variation (≈1150%) in average stiffness. A combined variation of both temperature (20–50 ∘C) and pressure (0–0.2 MPa) displays a stiffness variation of 501 mN/mm. The pressure variation (0–0.2 MPa) in the actuator also shows a large variation in the output force (1.46 N) at 50 ∘C compared to the output force variation (0.16 N) at 20 ∘C. The pressure variation is further utilized for bending the actuator. Varying the pressure (0–0.2 MPa) at 20 ∘C displayed no bending in the actuator. In contrast, the same variation of pressure at 50 ∘C displayed a bending angle of 80∘. A combined variation of both temperature (20–50 ∘C) and pressure (0–0.2 MPa) shows the ability to bend 80∘. At the same time, an additional weight (300 g) suspended to the actuator could increase its bending capability to 160∘. We demonstrated a soft robotic gripper varying its stiffness to carry various objects.
- Published
- 2021
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