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One Soft Step: Bio-Inspired Artificial Muscle Mechanisms for Space Applications
Joseph Ashby1, Samuel Rosset1, E-F Markus Henke1,2,3,4
1Biomimetics Laboratory, Auckland Bioengineering Institute, University of Auckland, Auckland, New Zealand.
Frontiers in Robotics and AI
|January 31, 2022
Summary
Soft robots utilizing inflatable dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) offer a compact solution for space exploration. These bio-inspired actuators enable low-mass robots to deploy into large volumes, enhancing mission versatility and robustness.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Materials Science
- Aerospace Engineering
Background:
- Space exploration payloads face strict mass and volume limitations.
- Soft robots offer potential advantages for space applications due to their deformable nature.
- Existing soft actuators often lack the necessary performance for demanding space environments.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop compact, deployable soft robots for space exploration.
- To investigate the use of bio-inspired inflatable dielectric elastomer transducers (DETs) as soft actuators.
- To demonstrate complex motion capabilities in low-mass, morphable robots.
Main Methods:
- Fabrication of inflatable dielectric elastomer transducer (DET) actuators inspired by starfish podia.
- Integration of DET actuators into low-mass robotic systems.
- Testing of robot compaction for launch and deployment capabilities.
- Evaluation of robot mobility and adaptability in simulated environments.
Main Results:
- Successfully created bio-inspired inflatable DET actuators.
- Demonstrated significant volume reduction for launch-bound soft robots.
- Achieved complex, adaptable motion using the developed soft actuators.
- Confirmed the lightweight and high work density advantages of DETs.
Conclusions:
- Inflatable DET actuators represent a promising technology for compact, deployable soft robots in space.
- The bio-inspired design enhances robot versatility and robustness for extraterrestrial missions.
- Soft robotics powered by DETs can overcome traditional payload constraints in space exploration.
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