Soft Actuator With Bistable Polymer Layers For Multi-Curvature Control
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current artificial muscle technologies face challenges in achieving precise control, compact size, and multi-curvature bending capabilities while maintaining efficient energy use and durability.
Innovation Solution
A soft actuator design incorporating bistable polymer layers, flexible electrode layers, and light absorption heating layers made of PEDOT-based materials, coupled with voltage supply units and a control unit to control temperature and voltage for precise deformation and curvature manipulation.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Measurement precision
If traditional artificial muscle structures are used, then basic actuation function is achieved, but control precision and multi-curvature bending capability are insufficient
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial muscle is divided into multiple independent driving units, each comprising electrode layers and bistable polymer layers arranged in alternating fashion. This segmentation enables precise control of different segments independently, achieving multi-curvature bending capabilities while maintaining manageable structural complexity through modular design
Solution Approach 2:
Different regions of the artificial muscle are equipped with different electrode configurations and bistable polymer properties. The electrode layers have varying patterns and the bistable polymer layers have different mechanical properties in different regions, enabling localized control of bending curvature and direction for precise multi-dimensional movement
2Volume of moving object
If compact design is implemented, then volume is reduced, but control precision and functionality may be compromised
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial muscle employs a nested layered structure where electrode layers and bistable polymer layers are alternately stacked in a compact arrangement. Multiple functional layers are integrated within a small volume, achieving high-density packaging that reduces overall actuator size while maintaining precise control capabilities through the layered configuration
Solution Approach 2:
The patent transitions from traditional single-dimensional actuation to multi-dimensional control by stacking multiple electrode-bistable polymer layer pairs in the thickness direction. This vertical stacking enables control precision in multiple directions (x, y, z axes) within a compact volume, achieving multi-curvature bending without increasing lateral dimensions
3Use of energy by moving object
If energy efficiency is improved, then power consumption is reduced, but actuation speed and response time may be affected
Solution Approach 1:
The artificial muscle utilizes periodic application of voltage to the electrode layers to achieve actuation. By applying voltage in periodic cycles rather than continuously, the system reduces overall power consumption while maintaining effective actuation speed through the periodic stimulation of the bistable polymer layers, which respond rapidly during each voltage cycle
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
Enables precise control, compact size, and multi-curvature bending capabilities, simplifying the structure and reducing volume, while allowing for efficient energy use and durable performance.
Implementation Method 1
a first light absorption heating layer disposed on the first flexible electrode layer and configured to increase a temperature when light is absorbed
Implementation Method 2
Field activated EAP undergoes an electron polarization phenomenon by an applied electric field and is deformed by electrostatic force caused by electric charges induced in both electrodes
Data Source
AI summary
Provided is a soft actuator. The soft actuator includes a first bistable polymer layer, a second bistable polymer layer on the first bistable polymer layer, a first flexible electrode layer on an upper surface of the second bistable polymer layer, a second flexible electrode layer between the first bistable polymer layer and the second bistable polymer layer, a first light absorption heating layer disposed on the first flexible electrode layer and configured to increase a temperature when light is absorbed, and a first voltage supply unit, wherein the first voltage supply unit is electrically connected to the first flexible electrode layer and the second flexible electrode layer.