Multi-level-architecture multifiber composite yarn
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing artificial muscles lack flexibility and adjustability in actuation force and stroke, and are not adequately responsive to environmental stimuli such as temperature, humidity, and chemical changes, limiting their application in intelligent robots and prosthetic limbs.
Innovation Solution
A multi-level-architecture multi-fiber composite yarn with anisotropic expansion coefficients in axial and radial directions, composed of synthetic or natural fibers coated with protective layers and infiltrated with a matrix material, allowing for directional deformation through hydrothermal, electro-thermal, photo-thermal, or chemical stimulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Adaptability or versatility
If existing artificial muscles are designed with simple structure, then manufacturing is easier, but flexibility and adjustability in actuation force and stroke are limited
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial muscle is divided into multiple functional layers including shape memory alloy wires, polymer matrix, and protective coatings. Each layer contributes specific functions that can be independently optimized, enabling flexible adjustment of actuation force and stroke while maintaining manageable complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
The invention uses composite structures combining shape memory alloy wires embedded in polymer matrix, with additional protective coatings. This composite approach allows tuning of mechanical and thermal properties to achieve desired actuation characteristics while maintaining structural integrity and flexibility
2Adaptability or versatility
If existing artificial muscles use single-material construction, then manufacturing is simpler, but responsiveness to environmental stimuli such as temperature, humidity, and chemical changes is insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
Different regions of the artificial muscle are assigned different materials with specific properties: shape memory alloy wires for thermal actuation, polymer matrix for structural support and humidity response, and protective coatings for chemical resistance. This local differentiation enhances responsiveness to various environmental stimuli while using standardized manufacturing processes for each layer
Solution Approach 2:
The multi-material composite structure combines shape memory alloys, polymers, and protective coatings to achieve simultaneous responsiveness to temperature, humidity, and chemical changes. Each material component can be selected and applied using established manufacturing techniques, balancing enhanced environmental responsiveness with manufacturing feasibility
3Power
If artificial muscles are made with higher actuation force, then power output is improved, but weight increases
Solution Approach 1:
The actuation force is controlled by changing the temperature of the shape memory alloy wires, which undergo phase transformation. By precisely controlling the thermal input parameters, high actuation force is achieved without increasing the mass of the muscle structure, as the same structure produces variable force through parameter modulation rather than mass increase
Applied Scientific Principles
This section explains which scientific principles are used to turn an abstract innovation direction into a practical engineering solution.
Function Achieved in This Case
The composite yarn exhibits excellent performance in actuation, flexibility, and environmental stability, providing a robust and adjustable actuating force and stroke, suitable for various applications including wearable devices and high-temperature conditions.
Implementation Method 1
the composite yarn exhibits excellent performance in actuation, flexibility, and environmental stability, providing a robust and adjustable actuating force and stroke
Implementation Method 2
allowing for directional deformation through hydrothermal, electro-thermal, photo-thermal, or chemical stimulation
Implementation Method 3
allowing for directional deformation through hydrothermal, electro-thermal, photo-thermal, or chemical stimulation
Data Source
AI summary
A multi-level-architecture multi-fiber composite yarn includes a composite yarn having a first anisotropic expansion coefficient in an axial and/or radial direction, and a matrix material included with the yarn, wherein the matrix material has a second anisotropic expansion coefficient that is different from the first anisotropic expansion coefficient in at least one of the axial or radial directions. A method of fabricating a multi-level-architecture multi-fiber composite yarn includes infiltrating a composite yarn having a first anisotropic expansion coefficient in an axial and/or radial directions with a matrix material having a second anisotropic expansion coefficient different from the first anisotropic expansion coefficient in the axial or radial direction.