Flexible micro-actuator

0301221-63

[DEFINITION]
A micro-actuator that can move in any direction controlling pneumatic or hydraulic pressure in flexible body.

[DESCRIPTION]
The flexible micro-actuator is a type of pneumatic or hydraulic actuator that can bend, stretch, and twist, etc., in any direction by controlling hydraulic pressure in three or more chambers embedded in it. Its characteristics include 1) a simple structure and ease of miniaturization, 2) multi-degrees of freedom that can follow a robot's motions, 3) no sliding parts, so smooth motion and no wear particles, 4) compactness, as the actuator itself forms its own structure, 5) gentle action and gentle treatment of fragile objects, and 6) a high power-to-weight ratio. Application examples include manipu-lators, robot hands, and movable pipe inspection robots.

[References]
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