Variable Attachment Connector for Artificial Muscle Actuators
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Solution Overview
Problem
Existing mobile robots and advanced prosthetics lack the strength and speed necessary for effective movement due to poor specific power, limiting their ability to perform tasks efficiently and safely alongside humans.
Innovation Solution
The development of hydraulic or fluid-powered artificial muscle actuators, designed in bundles to achieve higher specific power by scaling down individual actuators, increasing hydraulic pressures, and allowing for variable power output based on task requirements, which are lighter, more efficient, and cost-effective.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Force
If actuators are designed to lift significant weight, then strength is improved, but speed deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is designed to be movable along the member rather than fixed, allowing the attachment point to be dynamically adjusted. This enables the actuator to optimize its mechanical advantage ratio based on the required task - positioning the connector closer to the load for strength, or closer to the actuator for speed, thereby resolving the contradiction between strength and speed
2Speed
If actuators are designed to move quickly, then speed is improved, but lifting capacity deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The movable connector allows dynamic adjustment of the actuator's effective lever arm length. When speed is prioritized, the connector can be positioned to reduce mechanical disadvantage, enabling quick movement without sacrificing excessive lifting capacity
3Power
If actuators are made heavier, then strength and speed are improved, but specific power deteriorates
Solution Approach 1:
The connector is segmented into a movable component that can slide along the member with minimal friction, separated from the main actuator body. This segmentation allows the connector to be a lightweight component that doesn't add significant weight to the actuator, while still providing the functional benefits of adjustable mechanical advantage
Data Source
AI summary
An apparatus for moving a member has at least one artificial muscle style activation element, and a primary movable connector secured to the at least one artificial muscle style activation element. The primary movable connector is configured to be movable from a first connected location on the member to a second connected location on the member.