Reimagining Robotics Through Artificial Muscle Technology

Artificial muscles are reshaping robotics, bridging gaps between imagination and reality.
What new frontiers will these innovations unlock?

Significant progress in robotic muscle technology has enabled the creation of advanced and highly capable robotic systems. These systems, driven by artificial muscles, are engineered to replicate the structure and function of human muscles. However, they go a step further, offering enhanced strength, faster movement, and greater endurance, allowing robots to perform tasks that exceed human physical limitations.

Revolutionising robotics with low-cost actuators

Thanks to the latest advancements in artificial muscle technology, robots can now move with the grace and flexibility of a worm while maintaining the strength to lift upto 500 grams consistently.

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Currently, stiff and rigid actuators used in robotics cost hundreds to thousands of dollars. A flexible, soft actuator costs just $3 in material (excluding a small motor that alters the actuator’s shape to mimic muscle-like effects). This advanced actuator is more practical for a human-centric environment.

The secret lies in 3D-printed soft actuators made from standard rubber. These cylindrical structures, called ‘handed shearing auxetics’ (HSAs), enable unique movements. Initially, HSAs made from thermoplastic polyurethane—a standard rubber often used in mobile phone cases—were developed. However, these HSAs were challenging to twist into extended and expanded states.

Successful actuation was achieved by assembling two or four HSAs, each equipped with its own motor. This innovative material allows a large muscle capable of withstanding an impressive 5000 lifting cycles without any signs of wear or tear.

The current worm-like robot is compact, measuring just 26 centimetres in length, and can crawl backwards and forward at a speed of over 32 centimetres per minute.

With this breakthrough technology, the possibilities for robotics are endless. From delicate surgical procedures to agile search-and-rescue missions, these artificial muscles are paving the way for a new era of safe and efficient robotics.

Transforming a mesh-like worm robot into an autonomous marvel

The Northwestern engineers’ mesh worm can be transformed into an autonomous robot by integrating advanced sensors, actuators, and control systems.

First, the mesh worm can be equipped with cameras, infrared, and proximity sensors, enabling it to perceive its environment and make decisions based on the information gathered. These sensors allow the robot to navigate complex environments, avoid obstacles, and interact with objects.

Second, actuators such as motors and servos can be added to the mesh worm to enable it to move and manipulate objects. By controlling the movement of its segments, the robot could crawl, slither, and even climb over obstacles.

Third, a sophisticated control system could coordinate the actions of the sensors and actuators, allowing the robot to operate autonomously without human intervention. This control system could be programmed with algorithms enabling the robot to explore unknown environments, search for objects, and interact with its surroundings.

The rise of robotic muscle technology represents a significant milestone in robotics, opening up new possibilities for developing advanced robotic systems that can perform tasks beyond the capabilities of human muscles. As researchers continue to innovate and refine these technologies, such robots will likely be introduced in the future, undertaking increasingly complex functions.

The author, Vinayak Ramachandra Adkoli, is BE in industrial production and has served as a lecturer in three different polytechnics for ten years. He is also a freelance writer and cartoonist