Soft Pneumatic Actuators are fluid-driven devices that utilize flexible, elastic materials filled with air or liquid to produce smooth and controlled movements similar to biological muscles.
They address the need for soft, compliant, and non-destructive actuators in applications where traditional rigid mechanical components would be too harsh or inflexible.
These actuators consist of a flexible membrane containing pressurized gas or liquid. By controlling the pressure within the membrane, the actuator can expand and contract in a manner that mimics muscle tissue, enabling precise and gentle movement without damaging delicate structures.
Manufactured using techniques such as injection molding, vacuum casting, or additive manufacturing to create flexible polymer membranes. The process involves creating a mold, injecting liquid polymers into it, and curing them under pressure or heat.
The actuators are built by first designing the actuator geometry, then fabricating the flexible membrane using materials like silicone rubber or thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU). The membrane is then integrated with a pressurization system and possibly sensors for feedback control.
Field units draw low hundreds of watts; fabrication is energy-intensive due to vacuum baking and curing processes.
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