Northwestern Engineers Develop Soft, Flexible Robot Muscle Inspired by Human Movement

• Northwestern University engineers develop a soft, flexible robot muscle mimicking human movement.
• The new actuator enables cost-effective, safe, and versatile soft robots for various applications.

Engineers from Northwestern University have pioneered a revolutionary, flexible and soft device which mimics human muscle for driving robot motion. The innovative actuator is expected to transform robotics by making them less costly, safer and adaptable to application in the real world.

Innovative Design and Applications

Aptly named Actuator. This innovative device makes use of common rubber material and 3D printing to produce soft robots. They can be incredibly affordable, requiring less than $3, with a tiny motor. In contrast to traditional rigid actuators which cost a lot and can pose a risk for human-centered environments The soft actuator is a great option for greater safety and convenience.

Performance and Feasibility

The team of researchers, headed by Ryan Truby, demonstrated the actuator’s abilities by creating the worm-like soft robotic as well as an artificial bicep. The robot was able to navigate small, complicated environments which demonstrated its agility and adaptability. Additionally the artificial bicep was able to lift the weight of 500 grams 5,000 times repeatedly without fail, which demonstrated its durability and effectiveness.

Technological Breakthrough

The actuator is built upon “handed shearing auxetics” (HSAs) complex cylindrical designs made of rubber. The design allows the actuator to contract and expand as if human muscles do that provide flexibility as well as durability. The usage of thermoplastic polyurethane (an elastic rubber that is commonly used in everyday objects like cell phone cases, also increases the durability and softness of the actuator.

Future Implications

According to Truby Truby, soft actuators make a huge advancement towards making robots can behave, and even move as living creatures. The bioinspired method does not just improve robots’ capabilities but also extends its applications to a range of sectors such as logistics to healthcare.