Paper
20 July 1998 Bioengineered novel robotic actuators for utilization in neuromuscular control
Eddie Paul
Author Affiliations +
Abstract
A linear motion-controlling or power-actuating cylinder can be found in virtually all types of machinery. In many applications, however, limitations in performance of longevity of operation exist due to a number of factors ranging from nature's environmental extremes to the demands of complex design and engineering requirements. Industry has come to accept the limited flexibility of current power- and motion-regulating mechanisms such as hydraulic valve-controlled actuators, and oftentimes chooses to design around the inherent flaws and drawbacks of these basic components. As a result, the level of maintenance and potential for mechanical failure are greater than necessary in many applications from routine road construction where hydraulic machinery is instrumental, to undersea operations where man relies heavily on hydraulic-cylinder devices during most scientific, geographic and biological research excursions. With ultimate flexibility and environmental adaptability providing the key motivation, E. P. Industries, Inc. has developed and prototyped a system of Novel Robotic Actuators to function where operational or environmental demands exceed the capabilities of conventional hydraulic-valve devices. The objective in developing the Robotic Muscle is to replace a typical hydraulic cylinder actuator with a relatively more compact `muscle-like' actuator exhibiting maximum flexibility and a superior strength-to-weight ratio while resisting the harsh temperatures and deterioration factors presented by unusual operating environments. Progressive development of the Robotic Muscle will be directed to use as an artificial biological replacement.
© (1998) COPYRIGHT Society of Photo-Optical Instrumentation Engineers (SPIE). Downloading of the abstract is permitted for personal use only.
Eddie Paul "Bioengineered novel robotic actuators for utilization in neuromuscular control", Proc. SPIE 3324, Smart Structures and Materials 1998: Smart Materials Technologies, (20 July 1998); https://doi.org/10.1117/12.316864
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KEYWORDS
Robotics

Actuators

Prototyping

Robotic systems

Latex

Sensors

Biological research

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