Low-Voltage-Driven Large-Amplitude Soft Actuators based on Phase Transition

Abstract

Soft actuators producing large motion in a short time are mostly based on stretchable polymers actuated by pneumatic pressure; they consist of bulky components, including a motor, pump/compressor, tubes, and valves. In this study, we develop a fast-responding large-amplitude soft actuator, based on a liquid-gas phase transition, which produces a compact system. The required pressure is generated solely by the electrically induced phase transition of a fluid in a cavity, mimicking the thigmonastic movements found in plants. We discuss the critical design variables to improve the performance and propose a new design for the electrodes, which are the most critical components. Our bending actuator produces large motion in <7 s, using a low-voltage source (<50 V) that allows a much faster response than the soft actuators based on phase transition currently available.

Department(s)

Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering

Comments

King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, Grant BAS/1/1315-01-01

Keywords and Phrases

fast response; low-voltage actuation; phase transition; soft robotics

International Standard Serial Number (ISSN)

2169-5180; 2169-5172

Document Type

Article - Journal

Document Version

Citation

File Type

text

Language(s)

English

Rights

© 2025 Mary Ann Liebert, All rights reserved.

Publication Date

01 Dec 2020

PubMed ID

32255724

Link to Full Text

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